1986 AC Ace vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 AC Ace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 AC Ace would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 AC Ace (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (169 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 AC Ace should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 329 kg more than 1986 AC Ace.
Because 1986 AC Ace 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, 1986 AC Ace 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, 1986 AC Ace (276 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1986 AC Ace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 AC Ace | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | AC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ace | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 276 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1349 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
