1981 Holden Statesman vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,041 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Holden Statesman (169 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1981 Holden Statesman 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 1981 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1981 Holden Statesman (361 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1981 Holden Statesman has automatic transmission and 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Holden Statesman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Statesman | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Statesman | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5041 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 361 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2510 mm |
