1952 Jaguar XK vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle

To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 59 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 44 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 2400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Jaguar XK weights approximately 65 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen 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, 2011 Volkswagen 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 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1952 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle.

Compare all specifications:

1952 Jaguar XK 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
Make Jaguar Volkswagen
Model XK Beetle
Year Released 1952 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3441 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 158 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 2400 RPM
Torque 290 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 83 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 106 mm 92.8 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Top Speed 201 km/hour 185 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1295 kg 1230 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