1976 Citroen GS vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Citroen GS would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1976 Citroen GS. (55 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 275 kg more than 1976 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Citroen GS. (72 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Citroen GS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Citroen GS | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | GS | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1015 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
