1974 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2012 Ford S-Max 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 72 more horse power than 2012 Ford S-Max. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford S-Max weights approximately 310 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, 2012 Ford S-Max, 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, 2012 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 2012 Ford S-Max | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 3 | S-Max |
Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 85.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
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 | 1743 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1660 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2860 mm |