1998 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2013 Honda Civic
To start off, 2013 Honda Civic is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2013 Honda Civic. (108 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2013 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 39 kg more than 2013 Honda Civic. 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, 2013 Honda Civic (174 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2013 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2013 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2013 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Honda |
| Model | New Beetle | Civic |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.7 : 1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1331 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4458 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1752 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1435 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
