1981 Plymouth Horizon vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Plymouth Horizon would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. (62 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Plymouth Horizon.
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, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Plymouth Horizon | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Plymouth | Volkswagen |
| Model | Horizon | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1715 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
