1973 Nissan Laurel vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Nissan Laurel (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 85 kg more than 1973 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1973 Nissan Laurel 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 Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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 Laurel (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1973 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Nissan Laurel | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
