1948 Triumph Roadster 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 Triumph Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Triumph Roadster would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (89 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1948 Triumph Roadster. (62 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1948 Triumph Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 96 kg more than 1948 Triumph Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 Triumph Roadster 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 1948 Triumph Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New 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 New Beetle (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Triumph Roadster. (125 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Triumph Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
1948 Triumph Roadster | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
Model | Roadster | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1948 | 1999 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1776 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 62 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Torque | 125 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1248 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |