1977 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,921 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (309 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 416 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 663 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beetle | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 4921 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 309 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1236 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3010 mm |
