1973 Opel Rekord vs. 1957 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1973 Opel Rekord is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Opel Rekord (66 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Opel Rekord weights approximately 325 kg more than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Opel Rekord 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 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1957 Volkswagen 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Opel Rekord | 1957 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rekord | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1560 mm |
