1978 Peugeot 305 vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1978 Peugeot 305 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,548 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Peugeot 305 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Peugeot 305 (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Peugeot 305 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Peugeot 305 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1961 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, 1978 Peugeot 305 (132 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1978 Peugeot 305 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Peugeot 305 | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 305 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1548 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2410 mm |
