1979 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2011 Pagani Zonda
To start off, 2011 Pagani Zonda is newer by 32 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 7,300 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Pagani Zonda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Pagani Zonda (594 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 551 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Pagani Zonda should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Pagani Zonda weights approximately 410 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.
Because 2011 Pagani Zonda 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 2011 Pagani Zonda. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen 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, 2011 Pagani Zonda (759 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 673 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Pagani Zonda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | 2011 Pagani Zonda | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Pagani |
| Model | Beetle | Zonda |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 7300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 594 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 759 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 2055 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2730 mm |
