1983 Skoda Rapid R vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (180 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. (62 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 463 kg more than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Skoda Rapid R 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 Skoda Rapid R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Skoda Rapid R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Skoda Rapid R | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Skoda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rapid R | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2850 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 55 L |
