1973 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen Passat | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 82 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
