1973 Peugeot 504 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 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 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Peugeot 504 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 174 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, 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, 1973 Peugeot 504 (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1973 Peugeot 504 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Peugeot 504 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 504 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
