1986 Peugeot 309 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Peugeot 309 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1986 Peugeot 309. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 423 kg more than 1986 Peugeot 309. 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Peugeot 309. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Peugeot 309.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Peugeot 309 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 309 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 169 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
