2003 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 46 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (175 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 318 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 318 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 220 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1436 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |