1974 BMW 3 vs. 2005 BMW X3
To start off, 2005 BMW X3 is newer by 31 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 16 more horse power than 2005 BMW X3. (184 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X3 weights approximately 492 kg more than 1974 BMW 3.
Because 2005 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 BMW X3 (420 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2005 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2830 mm |
