1976 Mazda 818 vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1976 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 398 kg more than 1976 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Mazda 818 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 818 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 68 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 92 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1002 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2510 mm |