1974 Humber Sceptre vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Humber Sceptre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Humber Sceptre would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1974 Humber Sceptre. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Humber Sceptre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 348 kg more than 1974 Humber Sceptre. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Humber Sceptre 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 Humber Sceptre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Humber Sceptre. (123 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Humber Sceptre.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Humber Sceptre | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Humber | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sceptre | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 992 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
