1974 BMW 3 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 36 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, both vehicles can yield 200 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 134 kg more than 1974 BMW 3.
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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4775 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
