1984 BMW 323 vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,314 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 BMW 323 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 310 kg more than 1984 BMW 323.
Because 1984 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New 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, 1984 BMW 323 (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1984 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 323 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2314 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
