1997 Morgan 4 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1997 Morgan 4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Morgan 4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Morgan 4 (112 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Morgan 4 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Morgan 4 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Morgan 4 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 1997 Morgan 4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen 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, 1997 Morgan 4 (161 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Morgan 4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Morgan 4 | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Morgan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
