1983 Peugeot 305 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Peugeot 305. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Peugeot 305 would be higher. At 1,905 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Peugeot 305 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1983 Peugeot 305. (65 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1983 Peugeot 305. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 245 kg more than 1983 Peugeot 305. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Peugeot 305. (122 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Peugeot 305 | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 305 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1905 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 65 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
