1980 BMW M1 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 BMW M1 weights approximately 18 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 BMW M1 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 1980 BMW M1. 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, 1980 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1980 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW M1 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M1 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 262 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
