2007 BMW Z4 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2007 BMW Z4 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW Z4 weights approximately 542 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW Z4 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 2007 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2007 BMW Z4 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW Z4 | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
