1989 Rover 216 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1989 Rover 216 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Rover 216 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Rover 216 (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Rover 216 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Rover 216 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1978 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, 1989 Rover 216 (141 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Rover 216 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Rover 216 | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Rover | Volkswagen |
| Model | 216 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
