1987 Buick Electra vs. 1976 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1987 Buick Electra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Buick Electra (139 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Buick Electra weights approximately 660 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1987 Buick Electra (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Buick Electra | 1976 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Electra | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1283 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2410 mm |
