2009 BMW 530 vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 BMW 530 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 530 (216 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 530 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 530 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 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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 530 (480 Nm) has 403 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 530 | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 530 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
