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 3,188 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Multivan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 919 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. 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, 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, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan (315 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Multivan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan 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. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 3188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2299 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 |
