2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 491 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | New Beetle | Beetle |
Year Released | 2008 | 1955 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 38 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 89 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |