1956 BMW 507 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 507. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 507 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 507 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1956 BMW 507. (148 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 507. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 79 kg more than 1956 BMW 507. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 BMW 507 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 1956 BMW 507. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 507. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 507.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 507 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 507 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1254 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 55 L |
