1986 BMW 325 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 325 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 325 weights approximately 93 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 325 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 1986 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (232 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 325. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 325 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2475 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
