1988 BMW 316 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 460 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1988 BMW 316 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 1988 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 316 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2537 mm |
