1984 Daimler 4.2 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Daimler 4.2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Daimler 4.2 would be higher. At 4,235 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Daimler 4.2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Daimler 4.2 (205 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. (180 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Daimler 4.2 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Daimler 4.2 weights approximately 517 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Daimler 4.2 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 1984 Daimler 4.2. 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, 1984 Daimler 4.2 (314 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1984 Daimler 4.2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Daimler 4.2 | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Daimler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4.2 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4235 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 314 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 106 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2520 mm |
