1998 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 94 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.4 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
