1971 Austin 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 41 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, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 304 kg more than 1971 Austin 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Austin 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Austin 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1794 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1904 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2919 mm |
