2002 BMW M3 vs. 1975 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 295 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 775 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 2002 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 1975 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
