1991 BMW 518 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1991 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 5 kg more than 1991 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 BMW 518. 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1991 BMW 518 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 518 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1991 | 1999 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1165 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2860 mm |