2009 Pontiac Solstice vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 2,384 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (173 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 2009 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Beetle, 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 Pontiac Solstice (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Pontiac Solstice | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Solstice | Beetle |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2384 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 226 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2410 mm |