1991 BMW 325 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1991 BMW 325. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 BMW 325 weights approximately 203 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1991 BMW 325 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 1991 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, both vehicles can yield 220 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 325 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 325 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
