1976 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer (93 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 354 kg more than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Because 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 Mitsubishi Lancer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lancer | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2470 mm |
