1973 Peugeot 504 vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Peugeot 504. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Peugeot 504 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Peugeot 504 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Peugeot 504 (81 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Peugeot 504 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 80 kg more than 1973 Peugeot 504.
Because 1973 Peugeot 504 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 Peugeot 504. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Peugeot 504 (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1973 Peugeot 504 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Peugeot 504 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 504 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
