2003 BMW 325 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2003 BMW 325 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 325 (192 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 325 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2003 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 325 | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 325 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | 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 | 192 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
