1989 Subaru XT vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 15 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 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Subaru XT (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Subaru XT should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 167 kg more than 1989 Subaru XT.
Because 1989 Subaru XT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volkswagen New 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, 1989 Subaru XT (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1989 Subaru XT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Subaru XT | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | XT | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
