2004 BMW 645 vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2004 BMW 645 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,392 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 BMW 645 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 645 (322 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 298 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 645 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 645 weights approximately 955 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 645 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 2004 BMW 645. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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, 2004 BMW 645 (447 Nm) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 2004 BMW 645 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 645 | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 645 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4392 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
