2008 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 2008 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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 M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.2 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
