1988 BMW 524 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 24 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (158 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 4 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 524 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 524 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 524 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1359 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2537 mm |
