1973 BMW 3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 1037 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.
Because 1973 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 1973 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1973 BMW 3 (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1973 BMW 3 | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3153 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 203 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 287 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 2307 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |