1965 NSU 1000 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 NSU 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 NSU 1000 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1965 NSU 1000. (43 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1965 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 616 kg more than 1965 NSU 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 NSU 1000 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 NSU 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 NSU 1000. (71 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 NSU 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 NSU 1000 | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | NSU | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1000 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 996 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 55 L |
