1973 Rover 2000 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Rover 2000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Rover 2000 would be higher. At 1,978 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Rover 2000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1973 Rover 2000. (106 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Rover 2000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Rover 2000 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1973 Rover 2000 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 Rover 2000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Rover 2000 (172 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (166 Nm). This means 1973 Rover 2000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Rover 2000 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Rover | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2000 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1978 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2680 mm |
