2003 Toyota Prius vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2003 Toyota Prius is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2003 Toyota Prius. (76 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 48 kg more than 2003 Toyota Prius. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Toyota Prius. (115 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Toyota Prius.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Toyota Prius | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prius | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1497 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
