1978 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2012 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 898 kg more than 1978 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, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | 2012 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Beetle | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1718 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1872 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2751 mm |
