2009 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1977 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Optra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Optra (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Optra should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 461 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Volkswagen 1302 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 1977 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Optra (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen 1302. (85 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Optra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Optra | 1977 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optra | 1302 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.6 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1211 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2410 mm |
