2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1970 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 282 kg more than 1970 Datsun 240Z.
Because 1970 Datsun 240Z 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 1970 Datsun 240Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Datsun 240Z. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1970 Datsun 240Z has manual transmission. 1970 Datsun 240Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1970 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Datsun |
| Model | New Beetle | 240Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2480 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
