1974 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 38 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 96 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 119 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Golf |
Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1314 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2578 mm |