2004 Honda NSX vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2004 Honda NSX is newer by 24 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Honda NSX (249 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Honda NSX weights approximately 610 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 2004 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 2004 Honda NSX. 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, 2004 Honda NSX (287 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Honda NSX | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
Model | NSX | Beetle |
Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 287 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |