1948 Citroen 2CV vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 53 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1948 Citroen 2CV. (9 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1948 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 503 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Citroen 2CV. (23 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2001 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 | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2CV | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 375 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 9 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 23 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 63 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 682 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 55 L |
