2003 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 515 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
