1971 BMW 3 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 42 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 128 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 2013 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (329 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | 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 | 180 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4212 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2578 mm |
