2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1993 Volvo 960
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volvo 960 (187 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volvo 960 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Volvo 960 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 1993 Volvo 960. 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. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1993 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1993 Volvo 960 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1993 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | 960 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2480 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2780 mm |
