1974 BMW 2.8 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 2.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 2.8 would be higher. At 3,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 2.8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 2.8 (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 2.8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 767 kg more than 1974 BMW 2.8.
Because 1974 BMW 2.8 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 1974 BMW 2.8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1974 BMW 2.8 (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 2.8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 2.8 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 2.8 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3293 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 295 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 2307 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2510 mm |