2008 Lexus GS vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Lexus GS is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,992 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus GS (242 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus GS weights approximately 980 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Lexus GS 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 2008 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Volkswagen 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, 2008 Lexus GS (294 Nm) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 2008 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus GS | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | GS | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2992 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 40 L |
