2001 BMW M vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle

To start off, 2001 BMW M is newer by 2 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 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M weights approximately 169 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 2001 BMW M 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 2001 BMW M. 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, 2001 BMW M (345 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW M 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model M New Beetle
Year Released 2001 1999
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3169 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 320 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 345 Nm 148 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.5:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1375 kg 1206 kg
Vehicle Length 4030 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1520 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 51 L 45 L