1972 BMW 3 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1972 BMW 3 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Polo |
Year Released | 1972 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3003 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 272 Nm | 116 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |