1974 BMW 3 vs. 2008 BMW 325
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 34 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 11 more horse power than 2008 BMW 325. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 142 kg more than 1974 BMW 3.
Because 2008 BMW 325 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, 2008 BMW 325 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2008 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2730 mm |
