1971 BMW 3 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 42 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 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 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, 1971 BMW 3 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 2013 Volkswagen 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. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1971 | 2013 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 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 | 1380 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4277 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2537 mm |