1955 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 1988 Mitsubishi Magna is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,555 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mitsubishi Magna (112 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mitsubishi Magna should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 480 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Mitsubishi Magna, 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, 1988 Mitsubishi Magna (195 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1988 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | 1988 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Beetle | Magna |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 2555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2600 mm |
