1958 Jeep CJ vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Jeep CJ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Jeep CJ would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 1958 Jeep CJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1958 Jeep CJ. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1958 Jeep CJ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 350 kg more than 1958 Jeep CJ. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Jeep CJ is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1958 Jeep CJ 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Jeep CJ. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Jeep CJ. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1958 Jeep CJ has manual transmission. 1958 Jeep CJ will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Jeep CJ | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
| Model | CJ | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3520 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2537 mm |
