1974 Citroen GS vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Citroen GS would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1974 Citroen GS. (58 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 457 kg more than 1974 Citroen GS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen GS. (87 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen GS. 1974 Citroen GS has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Citroen GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen GS | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | GS | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1220 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 942 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
