1998 Volkswagen Fusca vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Fusca would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. (52 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 511 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. (106 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Volkswagen Fusca | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Fusca | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1899 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 52 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 106 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1331 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |