2004 BMW 320 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 BMW 320 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 320 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 2004 BMW 320 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 2004 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 BMW 320 (334 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 320 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 334 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
