1998 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 8 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 34 kg more than 1998 BMW 318.
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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (241 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
| 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 | 1309 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
