2008 BMW X3 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 30 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 920 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 2008 BMW X3 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 2008 BMW X3. 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, 2008 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2410 mm |
