1996 BMW 525 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525.
Because 1996 BMW 525 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 1996 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1996 BMW 525 (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 525 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 525 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 279 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |