2005 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW Z4 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 2011 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (406 Nm) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | New Beetle | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
