1978 Austin Maxi vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1978 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 398 kg more than 1978 Austin Maxi. 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Austin Maxi | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxi | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
