1983 Peugeot 604 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Peugeot 604. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Peugeot 604 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Peugeot 604 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1983 Peugeot 604. (96 HP @ 4150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1983 Peugeot 604. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Peugeot 604 weights approximately 156 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1983 Peugeot 604 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 604. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (241 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Peugeot 604. (206 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Peugeot 604.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Peugeot 604 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 604 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4150 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1309 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
