1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight vs. 1962 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,129 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight weights approximately 995 kg more than 1962 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight 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 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1962 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight | 1962 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ninety-Eight | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4129 cc | 1129 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5610 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2410 mm |
