1948 Citroen 2CV vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 64 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1948 Citroen 2CV. (9 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1948 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 698 kg more than 1948 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Citroen 2CV. (23 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Citroen 2CV. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1948 Citroen 2CV has manual transmission. 1948 Citroen 2CV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Citroen 2CV | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2CV | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 375 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 9 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 23 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 682 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 55 L |
