1988 Porsche 944 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 21 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 2,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Porsche 944 (208 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Porsche 944 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 2009 Volkswagen 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 (281 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1988 Porsche 944 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Porsche 944 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 944 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2990 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 104 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2510 mm |
