1978 Renault 4 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 31 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 2400 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 515 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 4 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Renault 4 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
Model | 4 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1108 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 34 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Torque | 72 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |