1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 41 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 21 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
