1985 Subaru 1.8 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Subaru 1.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Subaru 1.8 would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1985 Subaru 1.8. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1985 Subaru 1.8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 410 kg more than 1985 Subaru 1.8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Subaru 1.8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Subaru 1.8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Subaru 1.8. (142 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Subaru 1.8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Subaru 1.8 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1.8 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2510 mm |
