1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Datsun 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Datsun 1000 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1966 Datsun 1000. (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Because 1966 Datsun 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 1966 Datsun 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Datsun 1000. (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Datsun 1000 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1000 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2510 mm |
