1989 Subaru XT vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Subaru XT would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1989 Subaru XT. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1989 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 134 kg more than 1989 Subaru XT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Subaru XT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Subaru XT will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Subaru XT. (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Subaru XT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Subaru XT | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | XT | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
