1976 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight would be higher. At 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1976 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight. (108 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight weights approximately 421 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1976 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight 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 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight (279 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm). This means 1976 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | Eighty-Eight | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1279 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2470 mm |
