2003 Saab 05-Sep vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saab 05-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saab 05-Sep would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2003 Saab 05-Sep. (148 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2003 Saab 05-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 108 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Saab 05-Sep. (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Saab 05-Sep. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 2003 Saab 05-Sep has manual transmission. 2003 Saab 05-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Saab 05-Sep | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 05-Sep | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
