1971 Austin 3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,910 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Austin 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Austin 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
