1998 BMW 328 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 328. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 328 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 328 (191 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 328 weights approximately 338 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 328 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 328. 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, 1998 BMW 328 (280 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 328 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 328 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 328 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
