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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 18 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, 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 (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 318 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 318 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1893 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |