1974 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2006 Volvo XC90 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 4,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo XC90 (312 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 755 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 XC90 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 XC90 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 XC90 (441 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2006 Volvo XC90 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. 2006 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2006 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4408 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 312 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5850 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 2188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2870 mm |
