2009 BMW X3 vs. 1974 Rover 3.5
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1974 Rover 3.5. (149 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Rover 3.5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 177 kg more than 1974 Rover 3.5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Rover 3.5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1974 Rover 3.5 (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Rover 3.5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1974 Rover 3.5 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | X3 | 3.5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 276 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1638 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2820 mm |
