1994 BMW 316 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 BMW 316 (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 45 kg more than 1994 BMW 316.
Because 1994 BMW 316 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 1994 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, both vehicles can yield 150 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:
| 1994 BMW 316 | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 189 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.6 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
