1957 Talbot Lago America vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 47 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1957 Talbot Lago America. (106 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1957 Talbot Lago America. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 363 kg more than 1957 Talbot Lago America. 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, 2004 Volkswagen New 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (235 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Talbot Lago America. (212 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Talbot Lago America.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Talbot Lago America | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Talbot | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lago America | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2004 |
| Engine Size | 2476 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2470 mm |
