2003 BMW X3 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 435 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
