1971 BMW 3 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Polo 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Polo. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 223 kg more than 2010 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, 2010 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 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Volkswagen Polo. (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2010 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1157 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2470 mm |
