1978 BMW 730 vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1978 BMW 730. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 730.
Because 1978 BMW 730 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 1978 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 730. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 730 | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 730 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2578 mm |
