1955 Citroen 2CV vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1955 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1955 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 843 kg more than 1955 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Citroen 2CV. (25 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Citroen 2CV | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2CV | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 424 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 12 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 25 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 60 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 55 L |
