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 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 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 48 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, 1998 BMW 318 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (127 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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 | 1665 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.9 seconds | 15.6 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 | 1290 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
