1988 BMW 524 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 45 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 524. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1988 BMW 524 (210 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1988 BMW 524 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 524 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2470 mm |
