2005 BMW 730 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2005 BMW 730 is newer by 31 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 730 (225 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 730 weights approximately 1155 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.
Because 2005 BMW 730 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 2005 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 2005 BMW 730 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 414 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 730 | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 730 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | 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 | 225 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1975 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |
