1971 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight weights approximately 535 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight 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 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1971 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight (380 Nm) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1971 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ninety-Eight | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1935 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5900 mm | 4100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3230 mm | 2470 mm |
