1999 Lotus M250 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lotus M250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lotus M250 would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lotus M250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus M250 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus M250 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 342 kg more than 1999 Lotus M250.
Because 1999 Lotus M250 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 1999 Lotus M250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1999 Lotus M250 (321 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1999 Lotus M250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lotus M250 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | M250 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1510 mm |
