1987 Buick Regal vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle

To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Buick Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Buick Regal would be higher. At 2,843 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1987 Buick Regal. (135 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1987 Buick Regal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 40 kg more than 1987 Buick Regal. 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Buick Regal. (244 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Buick Regal. 1987 Buick Regal has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Buick Regal will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1987 Buick Regal 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
Make Buick Volkswagen
Model Regal Beetle
Year Released 1987 2013
Body Type Coupe Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2843 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 135 HP 197 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 244 Nm 281 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 1700 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.8:1 9.6:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1340 kg 1380 kg
Vehicle Length 4890 mm 4278 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1808 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1486 mm
Wheelbase Size 2740 mm 2537 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 62 L 55 L