2007 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1986 Volvo 740
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volvo 740 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volvo 740 weights approximately 50 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 1986 Volvo 740 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 1986 Volvo 740. 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, 1986 Volvo 740 (239 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1986 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | 740 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2780 mm |
