1982 Porsche 944 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,479 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Porsche 944 (151 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Porsche 944 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 55 kg more than 1982 Porsche 944.
Because 1982 Porsche 944 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 1982 Porsche 944. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New 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, 1982 Porsche 944 (195 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1982 Porsche 944 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Porsche 944 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 944 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2479 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
