1962 BMW 1500 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 BMW 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 BMW 1500 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1962 BMW 1500. (80 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1962 BMW 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 188 kg more than 1962 BMW 1500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 BMW 1500 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 1962 BMW 1500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 BMW 1500. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 BMW 1500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 BMW 1500 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1500 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1043 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2510 mm |
