1974 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan 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 62 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan weights approximately 108 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 Tiguan, 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 Volkswagen Tiguan (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Tiguan |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| 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 | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4426 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1809 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1703 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2604 mm |
