1971 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 19 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1399 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |