1990 Austin Maestro vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1990 Austin Maestro is newer by 12 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 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Austin Maestro (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Austin Maestro should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Austin Maestro weights approximately 95 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, 1990 Austin Maestro (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Austin Maestro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Austin Maestro | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maestro | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1273 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
