1978 Toyota Publica vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Publica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Publica would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Publica. (63 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Publica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 583 kg more than 1978 Toyota Publica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Publica. (95 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Publica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Toyota Publica | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Publica | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1166 cc | 1390 cc |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Vehicle Weight | 755 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
