1959 Jensen 541 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Jensen 541. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Jensen 541 would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Jensen 541 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1959 Jensen 541. (129 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Jensen 541. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Jensen 541 weights approximately 196 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1959 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 1959 Jensen 541. 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, 1959 Jensen 541 (310 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm). This means 1959 Jensen 541 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Jensen 541 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Jensen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 541 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1279 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
