1976 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 344 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 1080 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW M3 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 2012 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2012 BMW M3 | |
Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
Model | Rabbit | M3 |
Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 414 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 111 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 75.2 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 1885 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4615 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1803 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1392 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2761 mm |