1951 Jaguar XK vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,442 cc (6 cylinders), 1951 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1951 Jaguar XK (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1951 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 42 kg more than 1951 Jaguar XK.
Because 1951 Jaguar XK 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 1951 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1951 Jaguar XK (290 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1951 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Jaguar XK | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3442 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
