1972 BMW 520 vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1972 BMW 520 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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, 1972 BMW 520 (165 Nm) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
