2000 BMW 323 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2000 BMW 323 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 2,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW 323 (341 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW 323 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 BMW 323 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 2000 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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, 2000 BMW 323 (245 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (125 Nm). This means 2000 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 2000 BMW 323 has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Santana has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW 323 | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Santana |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 341 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2560 mm |
