1995 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1995 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 318 weights approximately 112 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1995 BMW 318 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 1995 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1995 BMW 318 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 318 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |