2008 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1975 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 690 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. 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 Passat (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Passat | 1975 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
