1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 120 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2590 mm |
