1996 Peugeot 306 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Peugeot 306. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Peugeot 306 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1996 Peugeot 306. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Peugeot 306. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 272 kg more than 1996 Peugeot 306. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Peugeot 306. (112 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Peugeot 306.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Peugeot 306 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 306 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
