2009 BMW 116 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 BMW 116 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 116 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 116 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 116 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 116 weights approximately 705 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 116 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 2009 BMW 116. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 2009 BMW 116 (150 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 116 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 116 | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 116 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
