1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 156 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen T5. 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 T5, 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | T5 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2459 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 172 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1224 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1980 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1910 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3010 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 80 L |