1986 BMW M3 vs. 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M3 (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 35 kg more than 1986 BMW M3.
Because 1986 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 1986 BMW M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle. (152 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
