2001 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1971 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 435 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volkswagen 1302 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 1971 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1971 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | 1302 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2410 mm |
