1971 BMW 3 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 39 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton (237 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 935 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 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton 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. 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5179 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1903 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1901 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3001 mm |
