1976 Holden Statesman vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,040 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Holden Statesman (238 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 2400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Statesman weights approximately 373 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Holden Statesman 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 1976 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1976 Holden Statesman (427 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1976 Holden Statesman has manual transmission. 1976 Holden Statesman will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Statesman | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Statesman | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5040 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2510 mm |
