1974 Holden Torana vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Holden Torana would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Holden Torana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1974 Holden Torana. (101 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Holden Torana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 246 kg more than 1974 Holden Torana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Holden Torana 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 1974 Holden Torana. 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 (225 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Holden Torana. (156 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Holden Torana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Holden Torana | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Torana | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2520 mm |
