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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster 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, 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 (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1971 | 2013 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2537 mm |