1968 Mazda R-100 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mazda R-100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mazda R-100 would be higher. At 1,963 cc, 1968 Mazda R-100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mazda R-100 (110 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mazda R-100 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 504 kg more than 1968 Mazda R-100.
Because 1968 Mazda R-100 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 Mazda R-100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mazda R-100. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mazda R-100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mazda R-100 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | R-100 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 1309 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2510 mm |
