1972 BMW 3 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 41 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 63 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 54 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 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, 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 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1972 | 2013 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 16.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2537 mm |