2008 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc, 2008 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2008 BMW 323. (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 323 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2008 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 323. (230 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 323. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2000 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
