1998 BMW 325 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 325 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 325 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |