1988 BMW M5 vs. 1958 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1988 BMW M5 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,533 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M5 (311 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M5 weights approximately 933 kg more than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW M5 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 1988 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1958 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M5 | 1958 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M5 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3533 cc | 1190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1733 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
