2006 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1981 Buick Century
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,214 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1981 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick Century weights approximately 31 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1981 Buick Century 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 1981 Buick Century. 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, 1981 Buick Century (218 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1981 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1981 Buick Century | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Buick |
| Model | New Beetle | Century |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3214 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1399 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2760 mm |
