2003 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1977 Volvo 66
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 66.
Because 1977 Volvo 66 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 1977 Volvo 66. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 66.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1977 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | 66 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 73.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1550 mm |
