2003 BMW X5 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 is newer by 23 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (338 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 295 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 1375 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 2003 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW X5 (400 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X5 | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X5 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2195 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 40 L |
