2006 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1968 Volvo 145
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Volvo 145 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Volvo 145 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 64 kg more than 1968 Volvo 145.
Because 1968 Volvo 145 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 1968 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 145. (153 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1968 Volvo 145 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | 145 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1354 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
