1986 Subaru XT vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 15 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Subaru XT weights approximately 93 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Subaru XT | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | XT | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2672 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 147 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
