2002 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2008 Mitsubishi Raider
To start off, 2008 Mitsubishi Raider is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mitsubishi Raider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mitsubishi Raider (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mitsubishi Raider should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mitsubishi Raider weights approximately 296 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mitsubishi Raider 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 Mitsubishi Raider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Mitsubishi Raider (319 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Mitsubishi Raider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2008 Mitsubishi Raider has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mitsubishi Raider will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2008 Mitsubishi Raider | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mitsubishi |
| Model | New Beetle | Raider |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1422 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 3340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 83 L |
