1971 Volkswagen K 70 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 2,488 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Volkswagen K 70, 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1971 Volkswagen K 70 has manual transmission. 1971 Volkswagen K 70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Volkswagen K 70 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | K 70 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1604 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 148 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 51 L |
