1988 Rover Vitesse vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Rover Vitesse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Rover Vitesse would be higher. At 2,675 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Rover Vitesse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Rover Vitesse (178 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Rover Vitesse should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Rover Vitesse weights approximately 183 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 1988 Rover Vitesse (229 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1988 Rover Vitesse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Rover Vitesse | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Rover | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vitesse | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2675 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1427 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2470 mm |
