1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (311 HP @ 3300 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (630 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Valiant | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | BMW |
| Model | Valiant | X3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2810 mm |
