2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1976 Volkswagen Golf
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 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (99 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 494 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. (119 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1976 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
