1996 Volkswagen Polo 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 Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 144 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 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 (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Polo | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
