Jay Leno Drive 1938 and 2012 Volkswagen Beetles [Video]

We don’t really know what it is about this guy that we like, but Jay Leno just seems to have an honest way of describing cars. In addition, there’s very few people, if any, in the world who have a bigger passion for everything that moves (cars, bikes trucks...you name it) or possesses a bigger collection of vehicles.

While in Germany, Leno dropped by the AMG factory, where he assisted in the assembly of an AMG 6.3 V8 for the SLS AMG. The TV host even got to play around in the electric version - the SLS AMG E-CELL.

The chat show host didn’t stop there, as he also stooped by Wolfsburg, giving the oldest ever Beetle in existence and the brand new one a back to back comparison. We’re reminded just how cool the old model is, and how thoughtfully it was put together, great attention having been paid to proper headroom and engine reliability.

The old-timer might be good to drive at 10 mph (16 km/h), but for the real kicks you’ll have to go for the poky 2012 Beetle, a mix of retro styling and modern creature comforts. Jay quickly gets behind the wheel of the VW’s latest offering in 2.0-liter form, with a sunroof and air conditioning. The engine comes from the Golf GTI, produces 200 horsepower and is mated to a double-clutch gearbox.

The TV host correctly points out how much the Beetle has change into more of a sportscar than the previous generation, due to the responsive engine and a type of gearbox that wasn’t even available on a Lamborghini some years back. It’s not really a revolution, this car, more of an evolution, and its granddaddy is surely proud.