1956 Jensen 541 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Jensen 541. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Jensen 541 would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Jensen 541 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Jensen 541 (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Jensen 541 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1956 Jensen 541 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 1956 Jensen 541. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen 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, 1956 Jensen 541 (265 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1956 Jensen 541 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Jensen 541 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Jensen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 541 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
