1986 Subaru XT vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 2,672 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Subaru XT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Subaru XT (147 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (91 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Subaru XT should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Subaru XT weights approximately 48 kg more than 1998 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, 1986 Subaru XT (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1986 Subaru XT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Subaru XT | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | XT | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2672 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 147 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 95.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
