2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1976 Holden Torana
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Torana would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Holden Torana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 102 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 182 kg more than 1976 Holden Torana.
Because 1976 Holden Torana 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 1976 Holden Torana. 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, 1976 Holden Torana (156 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Torana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1976 Holden Torana has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Holden Torana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1976 Holden Torana | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Holden |
| Model | New Beetle | Torana |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1292 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2590 mm |
