1974 BMW 3 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 33 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 733 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 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3010 mm |
