2008 BMW X5 vs. 1974 BMW 3
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 34 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (350 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 121 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 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 BMW X5 (475 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2008 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. 2008 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 1974 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 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 | 1554 kg | 1433 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2700 mm |
