1995 BMW S3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 369 kg more than 2005 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 S3 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 S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1995 BMW S3 (260 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (225 Nm). This means 1995 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | S3 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
