1972 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 40 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 814 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan, 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 Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2012 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 78 L |
