2000 BMW 323 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2000 BMW 323 is newer by 21 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 2,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW 323 (341 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 298 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW 323 weights approximately 610 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 2000 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 2000 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, 2000 BMW 323 (245 Nm) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm). This means 2000 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW 323 | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 341 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |
