1983 Peugeot 505 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1983 Peugeot 505 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Peugeot 505 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Peugeot 505 (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Peugeot 505 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Peugeot 505 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Peugeot 505 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 1983 Peugeot 505. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1983 Peugeot 505 (148 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Peugeot 505 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Peugeot 505 | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 505 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2410 mm |
