2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1968 Volkswagen 1303
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volkswagen 1303. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volkswagen 1303 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 79 more horse power than 1968 Volkswagen 1303. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1968 Volkswagen 1303. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 481 kg more than 1968 Volkswagen 1303. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Volkswagen 1303 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 1968 Volkswagen 1303. 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 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volkswagen 1303. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volkswagen 1303.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1968 Volkswagen 1303 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | 1303 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1191 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 750 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
