2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf 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) has 60 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 386 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 151 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
