2008 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 4 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 195 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 2008 BMW 318 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 2008 BMW 318. 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, 2008 BMW 318 (201 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (166 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1968 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 | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
