1990 Skoda Rapid R vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP) has 86 more horse power than 1990 Skoda Rapid R. (62 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1990 Skoda Rapid R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 429 kg more than 1990 Skoda Rapid R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Skoda Rapid R is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1990 Skoda Rapid R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Skoda Rapid R. (99 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Skoda Rapid R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Skoda Rapid R | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Skoda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rapid R | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1279 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 55 L |
