2005 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 597 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.
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 Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
