1972 Renault 8 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 Renault 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Renault 8 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 119 more horse power than 1972 Renault 8. (49 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 580 kg more than 1972 Renault 8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Renault 8 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 Renault 8. 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. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1972 Renault 8 has manual transmission. 1972 Renault 8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Renault 8 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 8 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
