1999 Toyota Prius vs. 1970 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1999 Toyota Prius is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,582 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Toyota Prius (127 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Toyota Prius weights approximately 605 kg more than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Volkswagen 1600 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 1970 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Toyota Prius, 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, 1970 Volkswagen 1600 (110 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Toyota Prius. (108 Nm). This means 1970 Volkswagen 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Toyota Prius. 1999 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 1970 Volkswagen 1600 has manual transmission. 1970 Volkswagen 1600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Toyota Prius | 1970 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prius | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2340 mm |
