2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1981 Honda Ballade
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Ballade 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 (100 HP) has 33 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 446 kg more than 1981 Honda Ballade. 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 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade. 1981 Honda Ballade 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. 1981 Honda Ballade will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1981 Honda Ballade | |
Make | Volkswagen | Honda |
Model | New Beetle | Ballade |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1334 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 67 HP |
Torque | 240 Nm | 108 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 82 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 785 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1610 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2330 mm |