2008 BMW 523 vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 105 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 12 kg more than 2003 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 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 523 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 523 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 70 HP |
Torque | 230 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 14.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1268 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3010 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |