1955 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 54 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 1567 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, 2009 Volkswagen GTI, 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 GTI (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beetle | GTI |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
