1974 Mazda 818 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 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1974 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 350 kg more than 1974 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mazda 818 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 Mazda 818. 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 (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mazda 818 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 818 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2520 mm |
