1974 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 30 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 33 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.

Compare all specifications:

1974 BMW 3 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 3 Jetta
Year Released 1974 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 200 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 270 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 4250 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1433 kg 1400 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 4644 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1778 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1482 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2651 mm


 

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