1971 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 37 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 19 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 130 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2008 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. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Passat |
Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 78.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1510 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |