1952 Jaguar XK vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Jaguar XK (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Jaguar XK weights approximately 35 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 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 1952 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1952 Jaguar XK (290 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1952 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Jaguar XK | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3441 cc | 1422 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 |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 106 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
