1997 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 19 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 480 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 1997 BMW M3 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 1997 BMW M3. 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 86 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |