1997 Renault Spider vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1997 Renault Spider is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Renault Spider (140 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Renault Spider should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Spider weights approximately 170 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Renault Spider 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 Renault Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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 Renault Spider (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Renault Spider | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
Model | Spider | Beetle |
Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 185 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |