2003 Toyota Highlander vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 419 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 2003 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Toyota Highlander will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Toyota Highlander (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2003 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Toyota Highlander | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
Model | Highlander | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 1266 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 55 L |