1958 Jensen 541 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 Jensen 541. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Jensen 541 would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Jensen 541 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1958 Jensen 541. (129 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1958 Jensen 541. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Jensen 541 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1958 Jensen 541 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 1958 Jensen 541. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen 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, 1958 Jensen 541 (311 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1958 Jensen 541 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1958 Jensen 541 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Jensen | Volkswagen |
Model | 541 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1958 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3993 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 311 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |