The Volkswagen New Beetle: A Subcompact Car that Turned Heads
-
Oct 17, 2023
The Volkswagen New Beetle, introduced in 1998, was a modern reinterpretation of the classic Beetle that had captured the hearts of millions of people around the world. The New Beetle was based on the Volkswagen Golf platform but had a unique retro design that combined modern features with the iconic shape of the original Beetle.
The 1999 model year Volkswagen New Beetle was powered by a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine that produced 115 horsepower and 122 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a 5-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive. The car had a fuel economy rating of 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, with a combined rating of 24 mpg.
The New Beetle had a unique personality that was reflected in its styling, which featured a distinctive curved roofline, a rounded front end, and a sleek profile. The car was available in a variety of colors, including bright shades like yellow and blue, as well as more subtle tones like black and silver.
Despite its small size, the New Beetle was surprisingly spacious inside, with comfortable seats and plenty of headroom and legroom. The car also had a spacious trunk, with 12 cubic feet of cargo space.
The New Beetle was classified as a subcompact car by the EPA, and it had an annual petroleum consumption rating of 12.4 barrels of oil. The EPA estimated that the car would emit 370 grams of CO2 per mile, and it had an annual fuel cost of $2,400.
Overall, the Volkswagen New Beetle was a fun and stylish car that turned heads wherever it went. Its unique design and peppy performance made it a hit with drivers who wanted a car that was both practical and fun to drive.