2002 BMW 520 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 168 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 520 weights approximately 337 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2002 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 520 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
