2008 Subaru Forester vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Subaru Forester is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Subaru Forester is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Subaru Forester weights approximately 195 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2008 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Forester 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 Subaru Forester (320 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. 2008 Subaru Forester has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Subaru Forester will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Subaru Forester | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Forester | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 91 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
