1972 BMW 3 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 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 21 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. 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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 170 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |