1980 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 422 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. 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 Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Volkswagen Beetle | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Beetle | Golf |
Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1285 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 43 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 86 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2590 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |