1974 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Chevrolet Uplander
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Uplander is newer by 35 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 3,880 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Uplander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Uplander (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Uplander should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 358 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Uplander.
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, 2009 Chevrolet Uplander, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Uplander (325 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Uplander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2009 Chevrolet Uplander 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. 2009 Chevrolet Uplander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2009 Chevrolet Uplander | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | Uplander |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3880 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| 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 | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3080 mm |
