2009 BMW 545 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 BMW 545 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 545 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 545 weights approximately 1155 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 545 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 545. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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 545 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 364 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 545 | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 545 | Beetle |
Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 328 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 450 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1975 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |