1983 Toyota Starlet vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1983 Toyota Starlet. (47 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1983 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 583 kg more than 1983 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Toyota Starlet 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 Toyota Starlet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Toyota Starlet. (65 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Toyota Starlet | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
Model | Starlet | Beetle |
Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 993 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 47 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 65 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |