2009 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1954 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 760 kg more than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1954 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.9 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
