1998 BMW 318 vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 318 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 318 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1270 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |