1990 BMW 518 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle

To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 518 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 518 weights approximately 22 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 BMW 518 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 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1990 BMW 518 (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 518 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 518 New Beetle
Year Released 1990 2007
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1794 cc 1388 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 113 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 161 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81 mm 75.6 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.8:1 10.5:1
Top Speed 194 km/hour 161 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 12.4 seconds 15.6 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1360 kg 1338 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4100 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 55 L