1973 Nissan Fairlady vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 35 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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Fairlady. (109 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Fairlady. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 236 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Fairlady. (175 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fairlady | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2520 mm |
