1978 Mazda 929 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 929. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 213 kg more than 1978 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 929 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 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (235 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 929. (160 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 929 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 929 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
