1973 Nissan Bluebird vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 31 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Bluebird. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Bluebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 408 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (235 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Bluebird. (135 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Bluebird | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 76 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 235 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1363 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2470 mm |