1954 Plymouth Belvedere vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Plymouth Belvedere. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Plymouth Belvedere would be higher. At 3,960 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Plymouth Belvedere is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Plymouth Belvedere (156 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (149 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Plymouth Belvedere should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Plymouth Belvedere weights approximately 355 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Plymouth Belvedere 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 1954 Plymouth Belvedere. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Plymouth Belvedere | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Plymouth | Volkswagen |
| Model | Belvedere | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3960 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 3010 mm |
