2004 Volkswagen Phaeton vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (414 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 325 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 247 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (550 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Phaeton | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 550 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
