1978 Buick Regal vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Regal would be higher. At 3,214 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1978 Buick Regal. (90 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Regal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Regal weights approximately 128 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1978 Buick Regal 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 1978 Buick Regal. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1978 Buick Regal (224 Nm) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm). This means 1978 Buick Regal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Buick Regal | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Regal | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3214 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2510 mm |
