1981 BMW 525 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 60 kg more than 1981 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 525 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 1981 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 525 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 525 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2323 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 90.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.8:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |