1997 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A4 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A4 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen 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, 1997 Audi A4 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A4 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
