1984 Opel Rekord vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1984 Opel Rekord. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 133 kg more than 1984 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Opel Rekord 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 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Opel Rekord. (143 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Opel Rekord | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rekord | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
