1981 Morgan 4 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Morgan 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Morgan 4 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Morgan 4. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Morgan 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 439 kg more than 1981 Morgan 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Morgan 4 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 Morgan 4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Morgan 4. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Morgan 4.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Morgan 4 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Morgan | Volkswagen |
Model | 4 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 96 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1264 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |