1959 Rover P4 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 Rover P4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Rover P4 would be higher. At 2,286 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Rover P4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1959 Rover P4. (67 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Rover P4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Rover P4 weights approximately 158 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1959 Rover P4 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 Rover P4. 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Rover P4. (169 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Rover P4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Rover P4 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Rover | Volkswagen |
| Model | P4 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2286 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1472 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
