1974 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2006 Ford Mondeo is newer by 32 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, 2006 Ford Mondeo (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 25 kg more than 1974 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Ford Mondeo, 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, 2006 Ford Mondeo (281 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Mondeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2006 Ford Mondeo | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 247 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2760 mm |
