1999 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2008 Saleen S7
To start off, 2008 Saleen S7 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 7,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Saleen S7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saleen S7 (750 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 661 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saleen S7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 1 kg more than 2008 Saleen S7.
Because 2008 Saleen S7 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 2008 Saleen S7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2008 Saleen S7 (949 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 739 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 Saleen S7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2008 Saleen S7 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Saleen |
| Model | New Beetle | S7 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 7000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 750 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 949 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1981 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1041 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2692 mm |
