1974 BMW 3 vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 38 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 57 more horse power than 2012 BMW 120. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 120 weights approximately 127 kg more than 1974 BMW 3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 BMW 120 (300 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 2012 BMW 120 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 3 | 120 |
Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 143 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1748 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1411 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2660 mm |