1983 BMW 325 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1983 BMW 325 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 325 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 325 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 325 (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 325 | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 325 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
