1998 Saturn SL vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Saturn SL is newer by 21 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 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Saturn SL (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Saturn SL should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Saturn SL weights approximately 235 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.
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, 1998 Saturn SL (159 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Saturn SL | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Saturn | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1560 mm |
