1973 Mazda 818 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mazda 818 (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mazda 818 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mazda 818 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1973 Mazda 818 (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Mazda 818 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mazda 818 | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 818 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1973 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1270 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 68 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 92 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2410 mm |