2003 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1982 Mitsubishi Colt
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mitsubishi Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mitsubishi Colt 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 39 more horse power than 1982 Mitsubishi Colt. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1982 Mitsubishi Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 495 kg more than 1982 Mitsubishi Colt. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mitsubishi Colt. (112 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Mitsubishi Colt. 1982 Mitsubishi Colt has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mitsubishi Colt will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1982 Mitsubishi Colt | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mitsubishi |
| Model | New Beetle | Colt |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2390 mm |
