1981 BMW 745 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 745. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 745 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 745 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 745 (252 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 745 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 717 kg more than 1981 BMW 745.
Because 1981 BMW 745 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 745. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1981 BMW 745 (380 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 745 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 745 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 745 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 55 L |
