2009 BMW X5 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis

To start off, 2009 BMW X5 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Iltis would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X5 (232 HP) has 158 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X5 weights approximately 850 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 X5 (521 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 385 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (136 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. 2009 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Iltis has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW X5 1978 Volkswagen Iltis
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model X5 Iltis
Year Released 2009 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2993 cc 1714 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 232 HP 74 HP
Torque 521 Nm 136 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 86.4 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 6 seats
Vehicle Weight 2150 kg 1300 kg
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 3890 mm
Vehicle Width 1940 mm 1530 mm
Vehicle Height 1740 mm 1840 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2110 mm