1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 5 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1998 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Z3 (320 Nm) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z3 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 165 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |