1998 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 439 kg more than 1998 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Polo | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
