1971 BMW 3 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 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 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 117 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. 1999 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1263 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
