1949 MG TD vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 MG TD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 MG TD would be higher. At 1,422 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1949 MG TD. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1949 MG TD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 368 kg more than 1949 MG TD. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 MG TD 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 1949 MG TD. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 MG TD. (87 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 MG TD.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 MG TD | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | TD | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1250 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2470 mm |
