1978 BMW 520 vs. 1965 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1978 BMW 520 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,951 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 520 (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 908 kg more than 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 520 | 1965 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 762 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
