1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1976 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1976 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (235 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 1976 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2801 cc | 1283 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |
