2009 BMW M3 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 371 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 710 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1976 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Beetle |
Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1283 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |