1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 15 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 72 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 62 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2013 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (240 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z3 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 240 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2537 mm |