1968 Opel Rekord vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1968 Opel Rekord. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1968 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 288 kg more than 1968 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Opel Rekord 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 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Opel Rekord. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Opel Rekord | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rekord | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1492 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1092 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
