2008 GMC Sierra vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 GMC Sierra 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 GMC Sierra (353 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 238 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Sierra weights approximately 810 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra (506 Nm) has 341 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2008 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2008 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 GMC Sierra | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sierra | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5999 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 353 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 506 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2141 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6580 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4250 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 129 L | 55 L |
