1974 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2006 Volvo XC70 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 Volvo XC70 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 302 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 2006 Volvo XC70 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, 2006 Volvo XC70 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, 2006 Volvo XC70 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2006 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2770 mm |
