1957 Alpine A 108 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Alpine A 108. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Alpine A 108 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP) has 64 more horse power than 1957 Alpine A 108. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1957 Alpine A 108. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 681 kg more than 1957 Alpine A 108. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Alpine A 108 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 1957 Alpine A 108. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Alpine A 108. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Alpine A 108.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Alpine A 108 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alpine | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 108 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 904 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 113 HP |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2590 mm |
