1974 BMW 518 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 155 kg more than 1974 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 518 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 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 518 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 518 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 170 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |