1979 Peugeot 505 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Peugeot 505. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Peugeot 505 would be higher. At 2,165 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Peugeot 505 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Peugeot 505 (130 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Peugeot 505 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Peugeot 505 weights approximately 134 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Peugeot 505 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 Peugeot 505. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1979 Peugeot 505 (180 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1979 Peugeot 505 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Peugeot 505 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 505 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2165 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2510 mm |
