1997 Volkswagen Fusca vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Fusca would be higher. At 1,583 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Fusca is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. (52 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 448 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Fusca is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. (105 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volkswagen Fusca | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Fusca | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1583 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 52 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1268 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3010 mm |