1959 BMW 700 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1959 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 739 kg more than 1959 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 BMW 700 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 1959 BMW 700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 700. (52 Nm). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 700 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 700 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 697 cc | 1984 cc |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2520 mm |
