1983 BMW 323 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1983 BMW 323 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,315 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 323 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 323 weights approximately 307 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1983 BMW 323 (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1983 BMW 323 | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 323 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1983 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2315 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 205 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1127 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |