1961 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1982 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1982 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,131 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Volkswagen Golf (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 10 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Golf.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1982 Volkswagen Golf (79 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1982 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | 1982 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beetle | Golf |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1131 cc | 1092 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 45 L |
