1965 Mazda R 360 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Mazda R 360. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Mazda R 360 would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1965 Mazda R 360. (16 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1965 Mazda R 360. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 947 kg more than 1965 Mazda R 360. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Mazda R 360 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 1965 Mazda R 360. 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 (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Mazda R 360. (22 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Mazda R 360.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Mazda R 360 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | R 360 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1965 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 22 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 384 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2990 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1770 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
