1983 BMW 316 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 343 kg more than 1983 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 316 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 1983 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1983 BMW 316 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 316 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1983 | 2013 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1572 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |