1960 Citroen 2CV vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 42 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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1960 Citroen 2CV. (24 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1960 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 535 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 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Citroen 2CV. (50 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 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 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2CV | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 850 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 50 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| 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 | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 55 L |
