2007 BMW 320 vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 BMW 320 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 320 weights approximately 94 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2007 BMW 320 (200 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2007 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2007 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 320 | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
