2008 Toyota Prius vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Toyota Prius is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2008 Toyota Prius. (110 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2008 Toyota Prius.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Prius. (111 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Prius. 2008 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Toyota Prius | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
Model | Prius | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1497 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 111 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |