1999 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 320 weights approximately 247 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 320 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 2012 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2012 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | New Beetle | 320 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
