1971 Holden Torana vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Holden Torana 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 94 more horse power than 1971 Holden Torana. (55 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Holden Torana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 540 kg more than 1971 Holden Torana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Holden Torana 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 Holden Torana. 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 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Holden Torana. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Holden Torana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Holden Torana | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Torana | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1159 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
