2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
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 New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 147 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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 (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2480 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
