1971 Volkswagen K 70 vs. 2010 BMW 550
To start off, 2010 BMW 550 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 286 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 550 weights approximately 740 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 BMW 550 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 2010 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Volkswagen K 70, 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, 2010 BMW 550 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen K 70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Volkswagen K 70 | 2010 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | K 70 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1604 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 488 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1847 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2888 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
