1970 Lotus Seven vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Seven. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 760 kg more than 1970 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Lotus Seven 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 1970 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Lotus Seven. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
1970 Lotus Seven | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Seven | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1970 | 2008 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1340 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 149 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 125 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |