1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 81 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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 Passat, 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 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Passat |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1461 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |