1958 Citroen 2CV vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1958 Citroen 2CV. (24 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1958 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 470 kg more than 1958 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Citroen 2CV is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1958 Citroen 2CV 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (150 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Citroen 2CV. (50 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Citroen 2CV | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2CV | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 850 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 50 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 735 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 55 L |
