1955 Peugeot 403 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Peugeot 403. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Peugeot 403 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1955 Peugeot 403. (44 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1955 Peugeot 403.
Because 1955 Peugeot 403 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 403. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Peugeot 403. (74 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Peugeot 403.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Peugeot 403 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 403 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
