1971 Nissan Bluebird vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Nissan Bluebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Nissan Bluebird would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1971 Nissan Bluebird. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Nissan Bluebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 378 kg more than 1971 Nissan Bluebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Nissan Bluebird 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 Nissan Bluebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Nissan Bluebird. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Nissan Bluebird.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Nissan Bluebird | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Bluebird | Beetle |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 76 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2537 mm |