1954 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 556 kg more than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Volkswagen Beetle 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 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beetle | Golf |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1450 mm |
