1957 Talbot Lago America vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Talbot Lago America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Talbot Lago America would be higher. At 2,476 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 Talbot Lago America is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Talbot Lago America (106 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Talbot Lago America should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Talbot Lago America weights approximately 180 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Talbot Lago America 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 1957 Talbot Lago America. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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. Let's talk about torque, 1957 Talbot Lago America (212 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1957 Talbot Lago America will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Talbot Lago America | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Talbot | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lago America | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1977 |
| Engine Size | 2476 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
