1987 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1987 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 300 kg more than 1987 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 BMW 318 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 1987 BMW 318. 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 318. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1987 BMW 318 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 318 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 161 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1266 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |