1973 BMW 3.3 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3.3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3.3 would be higher. At 3,295 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3.3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3.3 (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3.3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 BMW 3.3 weights approximately 630 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 BMW 3.3 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 3.3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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 3.3 (289 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3.3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1973 BMW 3.3 | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 3.3 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1973 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3295 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 289 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2410 mm |