2008 BMW X3 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 945 kg more than 1979 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, 1979 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 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 394 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 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 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW X3 | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | X3 | Beetle |
Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 480 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4070 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2410 mm |