1959 Jensen 541 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 52 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, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1959 Jensen 541. (129 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Jensen 541.
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, 2011 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, 1959 Jensen 541 (310 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1959 Jensen 541 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Jensen 541 | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Jensen | Volkswagen |
Model | 541 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1959 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3993 cc | 1781 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 | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |