1981 Nissan Cherry vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Cherry | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cherry | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1270 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2510 mm |
