1954 DKW Coupe vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 DKW Coupe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 DKW Coupe would be higher. At 1,422 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1954 DKW Coupe. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1954 DKW Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 381 kg more than 1954 DKW Coupe. 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 DKW Coupe. (69 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 DKW Coupe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 DKW Coupe | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | DKW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Coupe | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 879 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2510 mm |
