1972 BMW 2002 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 2002. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 2002 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW 2002 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1972 BMW 2002. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 2002. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 408 kg more than 1972 BMW 2002. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 2002 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 1972 BMW 2002. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 2002. (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 2002.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 2002 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2002 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 55 L |
