2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1973 Volvo 164
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volvo 164 (142 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volvo 164 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volvo 164 weights approximately 129 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volvo 164 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 1973 Volvo 164. 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 (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volvo 164. (221 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volvo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1973 Volvo 164 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | 164 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2976 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
