2001 Opel Vectra vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Opel Vectra is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Vectra (142 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Vectra weights approximately 495 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Opel Vectra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Vectra | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vectra | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
