1962 Jensen 541 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Jensen 541. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Jensen 541 would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1962 Jensen 541 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1962 Jensen 541. (130 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1962 Jensen 541. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Jensen 541 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1962 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 1962 Jensen 541. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Jensen 541. (310 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Jensen 541.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Jensen 541 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Jensen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 541 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 95 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
