1955 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 53 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 4,920 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (309 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1665 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 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 661 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beetle | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 4920 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 309 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 2405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2890 mm |
