1994 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 BMW 520 (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW 520 weights approximately 234 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1994 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1994 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW 520 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
