2009 Pontiac G3 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Pontiac G3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac G3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac G3 (105 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac G3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
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 Pontiac G3 (142 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac G3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Pontiac G3 | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | G3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2410 mm |
