1968 Datsun 1800 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Datsun 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Datsun 1800 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1968 Datsun 1800. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1968 Datsun 1800.
Because 1968 Datsun 1800 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 1968 Datsun 1800. 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 (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Datsun 1800. (156 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Datsun 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Datsun 1800 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1800 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1816 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 166 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
