1972 Mazda 818 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 37 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1972 Mazda 818. (79 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen 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, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda 818. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Mazda 818 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 818 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2520 mm |