2004 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 724 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Volkswagen Beetle is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 64 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1464 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
