1971 De Tomaso Pantera vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 De Tomaso Pantera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 De Tomaso Pantera would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 De Tomaso Pantera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 De Tomaso Pantera (350 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 307 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 De Tomaso Pantera weights approximately 780 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 De Tomaso Pantera 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 1971 De Tomaso Pantera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1971 De Tomaso Pantera (481 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 395 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 De Tomaso Pantera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1971 De Tomaso Pantera | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | De Tomaso | Volkswagen |
Model | Pantera | Beetle |
Year Released | 1971 | 1979 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 5766 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 350 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 481 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |