Germany vs West Germany — 1938 vs 1968
| Beetle Type 1 (1302S Super Beetle) | 411 Type 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 50 hp | 68 hp |
| Torque | 77 lb-ft | 91 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,584 cc | 1,679 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 17.9 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 81 mph | 91 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 20.9 sec | 20.0 sec |
| Weight | 1,918 lbs | 2,293 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,420 mm | 2,500 mm |
| Length | 4,080 mm | 4,553 mm |
| Units Produced | 21,529,464 | 367,728 |
| Original MSRP | $1,995 | $2,999 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $18,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 4/10 |
| Rarity | 2/10 | 6/10 |
Numbers favor the 1968 Volkswagen 411 Type 4 with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1938 Volkswagen Beetle Type 1 (1302S Super Beetle) offers lighter weight, stronger collectibility, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Volkswagen has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1938 Volkswagen Beetle Type 1 (1302S Super Beetle) with the 1968 Volkswagen 411 Type 4 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1938 Volkswagen Beetle Type 1 (1302S Super Beetle) producing 50 hp and the 1968 Volkswagen 411 Type 4 delivering 68 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volkswagen Beetle uses a Flat-4 Air-Cooled displacing 1,584 cc, while the Volkswagen 411 relies on a Flat-4 Air-Cooled OHV with 1,679 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Volkswagen 411 Type 4 edges ahead at 16.0 seconds versus 17.9 seconds. The Volkswagen Beetle carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 375 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 367,728 units built, the 1968 Volkswagen 411 Type 4 is considerably scarcer than the Volkswagen Beetle's 21,529,464 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1938 Volkswagen Beetle Type 1 (1302S Super Beetle) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.