1999 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2009 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 523 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 2009 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2009 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (150 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. 2009 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | 2009 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Beetle | 523 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
