1973 Nissan Bluebird vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 30 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Nissan Bluebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Nissan Bluebird (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Nissan Bluebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 313 kg more than 1973 Nissan Bluebird.
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, 2003 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, 1973 Nissan Bluebird (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1973 Nissan Bluebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Nissan Bluebird | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Bluebird | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1268 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3010 mm |
