1986 Pontiac 1000 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac 1000 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac 1000. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 439 kg more than 1986 Pontiac 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Pontiac 1000 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 Pontiac 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Pontiac 1000. (109 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Pontiac 1000. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1986 Pontiac 1000 has manual transmission. 1986 Pontiac 1000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Pontiac 1000 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1000 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2520 mm |
