1974 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 42 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 69 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 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Passat |
Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1502 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2712 mm |