1965 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Volkswagen Beetle 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 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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:
| 1965 Volkswagen Beetle | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Beetle | 850 |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1131 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 762 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2670 mm |
