1988 Porsche 944 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,479 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Porsche 944 (160 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 2400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Porsche 944 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Porsche 944 weights approximately 104 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Porsche 944 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Porsche 944. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1988 Porsche 944 (205 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1988 Porsche 944 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1988 Porsche 944 has manual transmission. 1988 Porsche 944 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Porsche 944 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 944 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2479 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
