1968 Volkswagen 1302 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 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1968 Volkswagen 1302. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1968 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 421 kg more than 1968 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Volkswagen 1302 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 Volkswagen 1302. 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 (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volkswagen 1302. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Volkswagen 1302 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1302 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
