1974 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 3,546 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (271 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 103 kg more than 2008 Toyota Highlander.
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, 2008 Toyota Highlander, 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2008 Toyota Highlander 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. 2008 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2008 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2800 mm |
