2009 BMW 125 vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2009 BMW 125 is newer by 6 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 125 weights approximately 52 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 2009 BMW 125 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 2009 BMW 125. 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, 2009 BMW 125 (270 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2009 BMW 125 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 125 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 125 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 125 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 14.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1268 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
