2003 Subaru Legacy vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2003 Subaru Legacy is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Legacy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Legacy (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 640 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy will offer significantly more control. 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 Subaru Legacy (343 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru Legacy | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Legacy | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
