2009 BMW 135 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle

To start off, 2009 BMW 135 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 135 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 135 (302 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. (180 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 135 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 135 weights approximately 212 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 135 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 135. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen 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 135 (400 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 135 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. 2009 BMW 135 has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 135 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 135 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 135 Beetle
Year Released 2009 2001
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2977 cc 1799 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 302 HP 180 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 235 Nm
Torque RPM 1300 RPM 1950 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 1313 kg
Vehicle Length 4370 mm 4100 mm
Vehicle Width 1410 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 55 L