1971 GAZ 24 vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 GAZ 24. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 GAZ 24 would be higher. At 2,111 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 GAZ 24 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1971 GAZ 24. (62 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 GAZ 24. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 GAZ 24 weights approximately 246 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1971 GAZ 24 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 GAZ 24. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 GAZ 24. (124 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 GAZ 24.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 GAZ 24 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | GAZ | Volkswagen |
| Model | 24 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2111 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2470 mm |
