1995 BMW M3 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1995 BMW M3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW M3 (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW M3 weights approximately 520 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1995 BMW M3 (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (85 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW M3 | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2988 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
