1954 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 54 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 543 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 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (170 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beetle | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1283 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
