1998 BMW 325 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 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 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 56 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 101 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 325 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |