1978 Renault 4 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 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,422 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 529 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. 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 (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 4 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
