1982 Opel Manta vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Opel Manta would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1982 Opel Manta. (75 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Manta.
Because 1982 Opel Manta 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 1982 Opel Manta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Manta. (98 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Manta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Opel Manta | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Manta | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2510 mm |
