1972 Holden Torana vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Holden Torana would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Holden Torana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1972 Holden Torana. (79 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Holden Torana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 276 kg more than 1972 Holden Torana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Holden Torana 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 1972 Holden Torana. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Holden Torana. (131 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Holden Torana. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1972 Holden Torana has manual transmission. 1972 Holden Torana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Holden Torana | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Torana | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2520 mm |
