1960 Citroen 2CV vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1960 Citroen 2CV. (24 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1960 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 471 kg more than 1960 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 Citroen 2CV is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 Citroen 2CV 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Citroen 2CV. (50 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Citroen 2CV | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2CV | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 850 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 50 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 735 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 45 L |
