2002 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1972 Volkswagen SP2
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen SP2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen SP2 would be higher. At 1,679 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volkswagen SP2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 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 354 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen SP2.
Let's talk about torque, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (120 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen SP2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1972 Volkswagen SP2 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | SP2 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1422 cc | 1679 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
