1981 Subaru Coupe vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Subaru Coupe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Subaru Coupe would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1981 Subaru Coupe. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Subaru Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 483 kg more than 1981 Subaru Coupe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Subaru Coupe. (114 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Subaru Coupe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Subaru Coupe | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Coupe | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.9 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 60 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
