1973 BMW 3 vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 142 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.
Because 1973 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 1973 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 1973 BMW 3 (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
