1996 BMW 535 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 277 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 535 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
