1986 Opel Rekord 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 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (169 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1986 Opel Rekord. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 43 kg more than 1986 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Opel Rekord. (182 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Opel Rekord. 1986 Opel Rekord has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Opel Rekord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Opel Rekord | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rekord | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1306 kg | 1349 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
