1957 BMW 600 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 BMW 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW 600 would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1957 BMW 600. (20 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 788 kg more than 1957 BMW 600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 BMW 600 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 1957 BMW 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (127 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 600. (38 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 600 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 600 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 583 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 38 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2910 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1710 mm | 2470 mm |
