1966 NSU Prinz vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 NSU Prinz. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 NSU Prinz 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 44 more horse power than 1966 NSU Prinz. (30 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1966 NSU Prinz. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 695 kg more than 1966 NSU Prinz. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 NSU Prinz 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 NSU Prinz. 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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 NSU Prinz. (42 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 NSU Prinz.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 NSU Prinz | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | NSU | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prinz | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 583 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 565 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 55 L |
