1955 Peugeot 203 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Peugeot 203. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Peugeot 203 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1955 Peugeot 203. (44 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1955 Peugeot 203. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 455 kg more than 1955 Peugeot 203. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Peugeot 203 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 1955 Peugeot 203. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Peugeot 203. (80 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Peugeot 203. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1955 Peugeot 203 has manual transmission. 1955 Peugeot 203 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Peugeot 203 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
Model | 203 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 44 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 80 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |