1999 BMW 323 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 BMW 323 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 637 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1999 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 323 | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 323 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
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 | 170 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |