1958 Riley 4 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Riley 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Riley 4 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1958 Riley 4. (63 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1958 Riley 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 91 kg more than 1958 Riley 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Riley 4 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 1958 Riley 4. 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 (165 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Riley 4. (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Riley 4.
Compare all specifications:
1958 Riley 4 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Riley | Volkswagen |
Model | 4 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1958 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 63 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 115 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1231 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2590 mm |