1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan 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, 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan weights approximately 927 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, 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan, 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 Tiguan (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan 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 Tiguan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Tiguan |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2610 mm |
