1971 BMW 3 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet is newer by 25 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 55 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet.
Because 1971 BMW 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 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet, 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, 1971 BMW 3 (254 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (165 Nm). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Cabriolet |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 157 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2480 mm |
