2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1976 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (119 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 433 kg more than 1976 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, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (153 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 1976 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elantra | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1283 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1253 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
