2003 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 301 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 520 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 520 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1399 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |