Germany vs Germany — 1938 vs 1973
| Beetle 1303S (Super Beetle) | Golf GTI Mk1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 50 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | 81 lb-ft | 103 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,585 cc | 1,588 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 17.0 sec | 9.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 81 mph | 113 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 20.5 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Wheelbase | 2,420 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,080 mm | 3,705 mm |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 1/10 | 5/10 |
The 1973 Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk1 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1938 Volkswagen Beetle 1303S (Super Beetle) counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The 1938 Volkswagen Beetle 1303S (Super Beetle) and 1973 Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk1 share a manufacturer in Volkswagen, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Volkswagen brand. The 1973 Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk1 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 110 hp compared to 50 hp, a 60-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volkswagen Beetle uses a Flat-4 OHV 8V displacing 1,585 cc, while the Volkswagen Golf relies on a Inline-4 SOHC 8V with 1,588 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1973 Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk1 edges ahead at 9.0 seconds versus 17.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 1973 Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk1 commands a significant premium over the 1938 Volkswagen Beetle 1303S (Super Beetle), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.