1971 BMW 3 vs. 1972 Volkswagen SP2
To start off, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1971 BMW 3 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen SP2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1972 Volkswagen SP2 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | SP2 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1677 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
