1963 NSU Wankel Spider vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 NSU Wankel Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 NSU Wankel Spider would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1963 NSU Wankel Spider. (50 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1963 NSU Wankel Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 560 kg more than 1963 NSU Wankel Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 NSU Wankel Spider 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 1963 NSU Wankel Spider. 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 (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 NSU Wankel Spider. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 NSU Wankel Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 NSU Wankel Spider | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | NSU | Volkswagen |
| Model | Wankel Spider | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1000 cc | 1388 cc |
| Horse Power | 50 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3640 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |
