2003 BMW 318 vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 BMW 318 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 31 kg more than 2003 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2003 BMW 318 (167 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2003 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 318 | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
