1979 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1998 Zagato Zuma
To start off, 1998 Zagato Zuma is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Zagato Zuma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Zagato Zuma (108 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Zagato Zuma should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Zagato Zuma weights approximately 230 kg more than 1979 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, 1998 Zagato Zuma (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Zagato Zuma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | 1998 Zagato Zuma | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Zagato |
| Model | Beetle | Zuma |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
