2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C
To start off, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 3,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 McLaren MP4-12C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C (592 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 491 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C weights approximately 154 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 2012 McLaren MP4-12C 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 2012 McLaren MP4-12C. 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, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C (600 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 452 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 McLaren MP4-12C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2012 McLaren MP4-12C | |
| Make | Volkswagen | McLaren |
| Model | New Beetle | MP4-12C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 592 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1199 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2670 mm |
