1972 BMW 520 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (241 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
