1995 Renault Espace vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1995 Renault Espace is newer by 17 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 3,499 cc (10 cylinders), 1995 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Renault Espace (804 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 761 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Renault Espace weights approximately 485 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, 1995 Renault Espace (705 Nm) has 619 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm). This means 1995 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Renault Espace | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Espace | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 804 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 705 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2060 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2410 mm |
