2002 BMW 318 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2002 BMW 318 is newer by 3 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2002 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 318 weights approximately 204 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2002 BMW 318 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 2002 BMW 318. 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, 2002 BMW 318 (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 318 | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 4.5 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 7.6 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.6 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
