1976 Nissan Bluebird vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Nissan Bluebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Nissan Bluebird would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1976 Nissan Bluebird. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Nissan Bluebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 360 kg more than 1976 Nissan Bluebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Nissan Bluebird 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 Nissan Bluebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Nissan Bluebird. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Nissan Bluebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Nissan Bluebird | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Bluebird | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2537 mm |
