1971 Volkswagen 1600 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP) has 97 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 375 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volkswagen 1600 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 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Volkswagen 1600 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 150 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
