2005 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2002 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 322 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Microbus 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 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2002 Volkswagen Microbus (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (127 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2002 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2470 mm |
