1990 Honda Civic vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Honda Civic would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 150 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 324 kg more than 1990 Honda Civic.
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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Honda Civic. (148 Nm @ 7000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Honda Civic | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
