2007 BMW X3 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana

To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 26 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X3 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 710 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 2007 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2007 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 2007 BMW X3 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. 2007 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 BMW X3 1981 Volkswagen Santana
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model X3 Santana
Year Released 2007 1981
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 190 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4500 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 133 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2600 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 23.0:1
Top Speed 196 km/hour 149 km/hour
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1765 kg 1055 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1860 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2560 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 60 L