1954 Opel Rekord vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle (52 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1954 Opel Rekord. (44 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1954 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Opel Rekord weights approximately 75 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1954 Opel Rekord 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 1954 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Opel Rekord | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rekord | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1487 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2410 mm |
