2004 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 351 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2480 mm |
