1998 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1961 Volvo P 1800
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volvo P 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volvo P 1800 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1961 Volvo P 1800. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Volvo P 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 241 kg more than 1961 Volvo P 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Volvo P 1800 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 1961 Volvo P 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen New 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, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volvo P 1800. (147 Nm). This means 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volvo P 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1961 Volvo P 1800 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | P 1800 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1331 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
