1974 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volkswagen Golf (47 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 70 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1978 Volkswagen Beetle (86 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (85 Nm). This means 1978 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volkswagen Golf | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1091 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
