2008 Honda Element vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Honda Element is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2008 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Honda Element | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
Model | Element | Beetle |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2354 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 166 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 218 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |