2003 Holden Statesman vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2003 Holden Statesman is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Statesman (229 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Statesman weights approximately 905 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Holden Statesman 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 2003 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2003 Holden Statesman (375 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Statesman | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Statesman | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 375 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2410 mm |
