1972 Nissan 240 C vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Nissan 240 C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Nissan 240 C would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Nissan 240 C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1972 Nissan 240 C. (109 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Nissan 240 C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Nissan 240 C weights approximately 115 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1972 Nissan 240 C 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 Nissan 240 C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Nissan 240 C. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Nissan 240 C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Nissan 240 C | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 240 C | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3010 mm |
