Volkswagen Beetle vs Moskvich-408: specs side by side
Quick comparison from catalog data - no editorial review of this pair yet.

Volkswagen · 2011–2019
Beetle III
- Power
- 9–165 kW12–224 PS
- Top speed
- -

Moskvich · 1964–1975
Moskvich-408
- Power
- 37 kW50 PS
- Top speed
- 130 km/h
In plain words
Volkswagen Beetle is the older design (from 1938); Moskvich-408 arrived in 1964.
Full specifications
| Volkswagen Beetle | Moskvich-408 | |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Version | Beetle III · 2 L 4 cyl Automatic (AM-S6) · 2015 (EPA) · diesel | 1.4 · petrol · 37 kW (50 PS) |
| Production years | 2011–2019 | 1964–1975 |
| Body | Hatchback, Convertible | Sedan |
| Country | Germany | Soviet Union (USSR) |
| Performance | ||
| Power Why it matters: More power means stronger acceleration and easier overtaking, especially with a full load. | 9–165 kW (12–224 PS) 12–221 hp Better | 37 kW (50 PS) 50 hp |
| Power, all versions | 9–165 kW (12–224 PS) 12–221 hp | 37–40 kW (50–54 PS) 50–54 hp |
| Torque Why it matters: Torque is the pulling force you feel when accelerating from low revs, towing or climbing hills. | No data | 92 Nm 68 lb-ft |
| Top speed Why it matters: Top speed hints at how relaxed the car is at motorway speeds, even if you never reach it. | No data | 130 km/h 81 mph |
| Engine and transmission | ||
| Fuel | Diesel | Petrol |
| Engine | 2,000 cc · 4 cyl 2.0 l | 1,358 cc · 4 cyl 1.4 l |
| Gearbox | 6-speed dual-clutch | 4-speed manual |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive |
| Dimensions and weight | ||
| Length | No data | 4,090 mm 161.0 in |
| Width | No data | 1,550 mm 61.0 in |
| Height | No data | 1,480 mm 58.3 in |
| Wheelbase | No data | 2,400 mm 94.5 in |
| Boot Why it matters: A bigger boot fits more luggage, shopping or a pram. | No data | 372 l 13.1 cu ft |
| Fuel tank Why it matters: A larger tank means more distance between fuel stops. | No data | 46 l 12.2 gal US |
| Economy and running costs | ||
| Fuel consumption Why it matters: Lower consumption cuts running costs and CO₂ emissions on every trip. | 6.9 l/100 km 34.1 mpg US | No data |
| Fuel cost per year | €1,710/year estimated | No data |
| Safety | ||
| Euro NCAP | ★★★★★ (2011) | No data |
These cars do not differ in the data we have.
Better marks the stronger figure - only for measurable specs (power, torque, 0–100 km/h, consumption, boot, weight).
Estimated at 15,000 km a year with fuel at €1.65/l diesel.