1998 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 14 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 148 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 2012 Volkswagen 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (175 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 318 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 318 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1297 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |