2007 BMW Z4 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 BMW Z4 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (180 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW Z4 weights approximately 122 kg more than 2004 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 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 2007 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Z4 (365 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (235 Nm). This means 2007 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW Z4 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
