1974 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 186 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2580 mm |
