1986 BMW M5 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,428 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW M5 weights approximately 169 kg more than 2008 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 M5 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 M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 M5 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1986 BMW M5 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M5 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M5 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3428 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 55 L |
