1971 Subaru R-2 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1971 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 806 kg more than 1971 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Subaru R-2 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 Subaru R-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Subaru R-2 | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
Model | R-2 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1971 | 1999 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 356 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 27 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 40 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1266 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2510 mm |