1997 BMW 316 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 316 (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 28 kg more than 1997 BMW 316.
Because 1997 BMW 316 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 1997 BMW 316. 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, 1997 BMW 316 (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (127 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 316 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
