1973 Nissan Fairlady vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Fairlady. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Fairlady would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Fairlady. (109 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Fairlady. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 345 kg more than 1973 Nissan Fairlady. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Nissan Fairlady 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 Fairlady. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Fairlady. (175 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Fairlady.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Nissan Fairlady | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Fairlady | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2470 mm |