1972 Peugeot 204 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Peugeot 204. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Peugeot 204 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1972 Peugeot 204. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Peugeot 204. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 534 kg more than 1972 Peugeot 204. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Peugeot 204. (84 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Peugeot 204. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1972 Peugeot 204 has manual transmission. 1972 Peugeot 204 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Peugeot 204 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 204 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1128 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
