1996 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2800 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2510 mm |
