1995 BMW 520 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 520 weights approximately 257 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 520 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86.4 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 | 1488 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
