1976 Triumph Dolomite vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Triumph Dolomite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Triumph Dolomite would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1976 Triumph Dolomite. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Triumph Dolomite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 445 kg more than 1976 Triumph Dolomite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Triumph Dolomite 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 Triumph Dolomite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Triumph Dolomite. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Triumph Dolomite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Triumph Dolomite | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dolomite | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
