1962 BMW 1800 vs. 1971 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1971 Volkswagen 1600 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 BMW 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 BMW 1800 would be higher. At 1,771 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 BMW 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 BMW 1800 (90 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1962 BMW 1800 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 BMW 1800 weights approximately 68 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1962 BMW 1800 (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1962 BMW 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 BMW 1800 | 1971 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1800 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1771 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1043 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 40 L |
