1953 Citroen 2CV vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1953 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1953 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 771 kg more than 1953 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Citroen 2CV | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2CV | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 375 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 10 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 22 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 55 L |
