1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 38 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 76 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (104 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 133 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Polo, 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 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (153 Nm @ 300 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Volkswagen Polo 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. 2009 Volkswagen Polo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2470 mm |
