1977 Opel Monza vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Opel Monza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Opel Monza would be higher. At 1,979 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Opel Monza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (158 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1977 Opel Monza. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1977 Opel Monza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 574 kg more than 1977 Opel Monza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Opel Monza 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 Monza. 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 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Opel Monza. (161 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Opel Monza.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Opel Monza | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Monza | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1979 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1359 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
