1971 Riley 4 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Riley 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Riley 4 would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1971 Riley 4. (67 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Riley 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 82 kg more than 1971 Riley 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Riley 4 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 Riley 4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Riley 4. (121 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Riley 4.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Riley 4 | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Riley | Volkswagen |
Model | 4 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1971 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1622 cc | 1899 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 67 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 121 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.3 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 92.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1148 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |