1971 BMW 3 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 32 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 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 240 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (326 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2003 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Passat |
Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 326 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 62 L |