2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2011 BMW 525
To start off, 2011 BMW 525 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 525 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 2011 BMW 525 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 2011 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2011 BMW 525 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2011 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | New Beetle | 525 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2480 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
