1974 Toyota Celica 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 Toyota Celica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Toyota Celica 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 29 more horse power than 1974 Toyota Celica. (85 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Toyota Celica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 428 kg more than 1974 Toyota Celica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Toyota Celica 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 Toyota Celica. 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 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Toyota Celica. (142 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Toyota Celica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Toyota Celica | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Celica | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2520 mm |
