2003 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 64 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
