1973 Volkswagen 1600 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP) has 81 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 625 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | 1998 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2470 mm |
