1973 Volkswagen 1600 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 32 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 363 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.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1600 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 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
