1971 Rover 2000 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Rover 2000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Rover 2000 would be higher. At 1,978 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Rover 2000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1971 Rover 2000. (106 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Rover 2000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 61 kg more than 1971 Rover 2000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Rover 2000 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 Rover 2000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Rover 2000. (172 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Rover 2000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Rover 2000 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Rover | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2000 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1978 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
