2009 BMW 523 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2009 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2009 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 523 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 523 | Beetle |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |