2005 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1969 Volvo 1800
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Volvo 1800 (124 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Volvo 1800 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 265 kg more than 1969 Volvo 1800.
Because 1969 Volvo 1800 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 1969 Volvo 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volvo 1800. (167 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volvo 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1969 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | 1800 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
