1980 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1980 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Beetle | 3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
