1978 BMW 520 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 520 (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1978 BMW 520 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 1978 BMW 520. 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, 1978 BMW 520 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 520 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |