1989 TVR 400 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 TVR 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 TVR 400 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 TVR 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 TVR 400 (275 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 TVR 400 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 230 kg more than 1989 TVR 400.
Because 1989 TVR 400 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 1989 TVR 400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1989 TVR 400 (366 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1989 TVR 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1989 TVR 400 has manual transmission. 1989 TVR 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 TVR 400 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | TVR | Volkswagen |
Model | 400 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 275 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 366 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2537 mm |