1977 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1966 Wartburg 353
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 353. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 353 would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Wartburg 353 (49 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Wartburg 353 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Wartburg 353 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1966 Wartburg 353 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 Wartburg 353 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | 1966 Wartburg 353 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Wartburg |
| Model | Beetle | 353 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2460 mm |
