2002 BMW M3 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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW M3. 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, 2002 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (240 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
