2006 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,475 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 247 kg more than 1973 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (232 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2475 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1162 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
