1959 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1971 Volvo P 1800
To start off, 1971 Volvo P 1800 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volvo P 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Volvo P 1800 (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Volvo P 1800 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volvo P 1800 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volvo P 1800 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 1971 Volvo P 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 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:
1959 Volkswagen Beetle | 1971 Volvo P 1800 | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
Model | Beetle | P 1800 |
Year Released | 1959 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 38 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1290 mm |