1990 BMW 320 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1990 BMW 320. (115 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 97 kg more than 1990 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 320 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 1990 BMW 320. 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 (240 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 320. (224 Nm). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 320 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1236 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2537 mm |
