2007 BMW X5 vs. 1974 BMW 3
To start off, 2007 BMW X5 is newer by 33 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X5 (283 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X5 weights approximately 747 kg more than 1974 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW X5 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, 2007 BMW X5 (440 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2007 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1974 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1974 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X5 | 1974 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1974 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 283 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.1 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1433 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2700 mm |
