1974 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (180 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 31 kg more than 1974 BMW 3.
Because 1974 BMW 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (235 Nm). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2520 mm |
