1988 BMW 530 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 530 (188 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 530 weights approximately 387 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 530 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 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 530 (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW 530 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 530 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1988 | 1999 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 188 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 261 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 77.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1593 kg | 1206 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |