1954 Buick 40 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Buick 40 would be higher. At 5,279 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Buick 40 (193 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1954 Buick 40 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 1954 Buick 40. 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, 1954 Buick 40 (410 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1954 Buick 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Buick 40 | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | 40 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5279 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2510 mm |
