2007 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1974 Volvo 244
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,125 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 244 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volvo 244 (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 2400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volvo 244 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 244 weights approximately 173 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 1974 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, both vehicles can yield 170 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1974 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | 244 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2125 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 2400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
