2002 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1971 Volvo P 1800
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo P 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo P 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volvo P 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Volvo P 1800 (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Volvo P 1800 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 124 kg more than 1971 Volvo P 1800.
Because 1971 Volvo P 1800 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 Volvo P 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1971 Volvo P 1800 (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1971 Volvo P 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1971 Volvo P 1800 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | P 1800 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1422 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2460 mm |
