1963 BMW 1800 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 BMW 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 BMW 1800 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1963 BMW 1800. (90 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1963 BMW 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 260 kg more than 1963 BMW 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 BMW 1800 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 1963 BMW 1800. 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 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 BMW 1800. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 BMW 1800. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1963 BMW 1800 has manual transmission. 1963 BMW 1800 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 BMW 1800 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1800 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
