1972 Mazda 818 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1972 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda 818.
Because 1972 Mazda 818 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 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (241 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mazda 818 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 818 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2510 mm |
