1971 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan is newer by 35 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 2006 Volkswagen Multivan. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Multivan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 804 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, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan, 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 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Multivan. (170 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Multivan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2006 Volkswagen Multivan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Multivan |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 163 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2184 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3010 mm |
