1978 Renault 4 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 34 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 637 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4. 2012 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. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 4 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 956 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2537 mm |
