1973 Seat 1430 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 Seat 1430. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Seat 1430 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1973 Seat 1430. (38 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Seat 1430. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 256 kg more than 1973 Seat 1430. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Seat 1430 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 Seat 1430. 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Seat 1430. (88 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Seat 1430.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Seat 1430 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Seat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1430 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2590 mm |
