1999 Jensen SV-8 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Jensen SV-8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 278 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Jensen SV-8 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Jensen SV-8 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 1999 Jensen SV-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1999 Jensen SV-8 (439 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Jensen SV-8 | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Jensen | Volkswagen |
Model | SV-8 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4601 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 321 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 439 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |