1996 Peugeot 406 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 1,618 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Peugeot 406 (88 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 81 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 1996 Peugeot 406 (130 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Peugeot 406 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 406 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1618 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1159 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
