2001 BMW M3 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 712 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
Because 2001 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Volkswagen Beetle. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2010 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2010 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
