1999 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1980 Volkswagen Iltis
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Iltis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Iltis would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volkswagen Iltis weights approximately 4 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1980 Volkswagen Iltis is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Iltis will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Iltis. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Iltis. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Iltis has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Iltis will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | 1980 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beetle | Iltis |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2110 mm |
