1974 BMW 3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat 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 10 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (190 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 114 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2005 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1974 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1974 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1547 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
