2001 Mazda Roadster vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Mazda Roadster is newer by 23 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda Roadster (197 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda Roadster weights approximately 245 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 2001 Mazda Roadster 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 2001 Mazda Roadster. 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, 2001 Mazda Roadster (196 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mazda Roadster | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | Roadster | Beetle |
Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 196 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2410 mm |