1991 Buick Roadmaster vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle

To start off, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Buick Roadmaster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Buick Roadmaster would be higher. At 5,731 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Buick Roadmaster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Buick Roadmaster (177 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Buick Roadmaster should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Buick Roadmaster weights approximately 509 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1991 Buick Roadmaster 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 1991 Buick Roadmaster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1991 Buick Roadmaster (393 Nm) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1991 Buick Roadmaster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1991 Buick Roadmaster has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1991 Buick Roadmaster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1991 Buick Roadmaster 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
Make Buick Volkswagen
Model Roadmaster New Beetle
Year Released 1991 1998
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5731 cc 1983 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 177 HP 115 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 393 Nm 165 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.0:1 10.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1840 kg 1331 kg
Vehicle Length 5280 mm 4100 mm
Vehicle Width 2040 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1650 mm 1520 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 75 L 55 L