1998 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 10 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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 75 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 318 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2480 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3750 RPM |
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 | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |