1979 Austin Marina vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1979 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1979 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 515 kg more than 1979 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Austin Marina is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Austin Marina. (102 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Austin Marina | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Marina | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1274 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
