1983 Nissan Micra vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Micra. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 631 kg more than 1983 Nissan Micra. 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Nissan Micra. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Nissan Micra | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Micra | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2860 mm |
