1988 Lada Samara vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lada Samara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lada Samara would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1988 Lada Samara. (64 HP @ 5550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 475 kg more than 1988 Lada Samara. 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 (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lada Samara. (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lada Samara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lada Samara | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lada | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samara | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 924 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
