2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. Both 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle and 1998 Volkswagen Golf are equipped with a 1,390 cc engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 74 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 233 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
