1979 Subaru Rex vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Subaru Rex. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Subaru Rex would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1979 Subaru Rex. (29 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1979 Subaru Rex. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 665 kg more than 1979 Subaru Rex. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Subaru Rex 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 Subaru Rex. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (166 Nm) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Subaru Rex. (42 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Subaru Rex.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Subaru Rex | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rex | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 543 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2680 mm |
