1971 Mini Clubman 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 Mini Clubman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mini Clubman would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1971 Mini Clubman. (38 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Mini Clubman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 658 kg more than 1971 Mini Clubman. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mini Clubman. (72 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mini Clubman.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mini Clubman | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | Clubman | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3180 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2520 mm |
