2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 3,248 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 221 kg more than 2006 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 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 2008 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3248 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 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 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1264 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
