1986 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (99 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 439 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Volkswagen Jetta | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1271 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 99 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2510 mm |
