1972 Mazda 818 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 41 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1972 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 333 kg more than 1972 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 818 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2537 mm |
