1973 Nissan Bluebird vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Bluebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Bluebird would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Bluebird. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Bluebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 251 kg more than 1973 Nissan Bluebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Nissan Bluebird 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 Nissan Bluebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Bluebird. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Bluebird.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Nissan Bluebird | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Bluebird | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1973 | 1999 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 76 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1206 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2520 mm |