1972 BMW 3 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 41 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 59 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 88 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
