2008 MG TF vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle

To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 MG TF. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 MG TF would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2008 MG TF. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2008 MG TF. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 160 kg more than 2008 MG TF. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 MG TF 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 MG TF. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 MG TF. (165 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 MG TF. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 2008 MG TF has manual transmission. 2008 MG TF will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 MG TF 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
Make MG Volkswagen
Model TF Beetle
Year Released 2008 2013
Body Type Roadster Convertible
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 118 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 165 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 89.3 mm 92 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1200 kg 1360 kg
Vehicle Length 3950 mm 4277 mm
Vehicle Width 1630 mm 1808 mm
Vehicle Height 1270 mm 1473 mm
Wheelbase Size 2380 mm 2537 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 55 L