2009 BMW 320 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 259 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2009 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 320. (191 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
