2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 20 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 625 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 2000 BMW Z3 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 Z3. 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, 2000 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2000 BMW Z3 | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z3 | Beetle |
Year Released | 2000 | 1980 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 229 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 40 L |