1989 Buick Electra vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Buick Electra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1989 Buick Electra. (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Electra weights approximately 195 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 1989 Buick Electra (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1989 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. 1989 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Buick Electra | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | Electra | Beetle |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2537 mm |