1998 BMW 318 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 9 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 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 65 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2323 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 | 220 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 - Premium |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 8.7 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 | 1340 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 |
