2003 Honda NSX vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2003 Honda NSX is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Honda NSX (249 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Honda NSX weights approximately 670 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Honda NSX 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 Honda NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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 Honda NSX (287 Nm) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 2003 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Honda NSX | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
Model | NSX | Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 1961 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2975 cc | 1131 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 24 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Torque | 287 Nm | 77 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |