1984 BMW 316 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (91 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 156 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 BMW 316 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 1984 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1984 BMW 316 | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 316 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1984 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 91 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 123 Nm | 202 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 95.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |