1977 Opel Commodore vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Opel Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Opel Commodore would be higher. At 2,784 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Opel Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1977 Opel Commodore. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1977 Opel Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Opel Commodore weights approximately 54 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1977 Opel Commodore 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 1977 Opel Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Opel Commodore. (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Opel Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Opel Commodore | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Commodore | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2784 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
