2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2002 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 310 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Microbus 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 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. 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 (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen Microbus has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen Microbus 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 | 2002 Volkswagen Microbus | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | New Beetle | Microbus |
Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2480 cc | 2553 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1660 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1960 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2470 mm |