1975 BMW 520 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1975 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 85 kg more than 1975 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 BMW 520 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 1975 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 520. (172 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 520 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
