1998 BMW 318 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 7 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 115 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 62 kg more than 2005 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, 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
