1948 Citroen 2CV vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1948 Citroen 2CV. (9 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1948 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 592 kg more than 1948 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 New Beetle (172 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Citroen 2CV. (23 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Citroen 2CV | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2CV | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 375 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 9 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 23 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 63 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 682 kg | 1274 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 55 L |
