1971 Rover P5B vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Rover P5B. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Rover P5B would be higher. At 3,528 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Rover P5B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Rover P5B (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Rover P5B should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Rover P5B weights approximately 720 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Rover P5B 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 P5B. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Rover P5B | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Rover | Volkswagen |
| Model | P5B | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Size | 3528 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2410 mm |
