2003 MG TF vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 MG TF. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 MG TF would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2003 MG TF. (114 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2003 MG TF. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 MG TF. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 MG TF 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 2003 MG TF. 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 (166 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 MG TF. (145 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 MG TF.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 MG TF | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | TF | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
