1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 8 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 61 kg more than 2006 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 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, 2006 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 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z3 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 191 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 92.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1399 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |