1989 TVR Speed Eight vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 TVR Speed Eight. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 TVR Speed Eight would be higher. At 3,947 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 TVR Speed Eight is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 TVR Speed Eight (225 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 TVR Speed Eight should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 159 kg more than 1989 TVR Speed Eight.
Because 1989 TVR Speed Eight 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 Speed Eight. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New 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 Speed Eight (340 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1989 TVR Speed Eight will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 TVR Speed Eight | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | TVR | Volkswagen |
| Model | Speed Eight | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3947 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1279 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
