1955 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2004 Volvo S60
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 is newer by 49 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (247 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 802 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, 2004 Volvo S60, 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, 2004 Volvo S60 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | 2004 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Beetle | S60 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2800 mm |
