2008 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (91 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 120 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Volkswagen Jetta | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Jetta | Beetle |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2480 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 91 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 202 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |