2008 Acura RL vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Acura RL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Acura RL (290 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 57 kg more than 2008 Acura RL.
Because 2008 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Acura RL 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, 2008 Acura RL (347 Nm) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2008 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2008 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Acura RL | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Acura | Volkswagen |
| Model | RL | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1274 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 55 L |
