1961 Cadillac 62 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Cadillac 62. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Cadillac 62 would be higher. At 6,390 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Cadillac 62 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Cadillac 62 (197 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Cadillac 62 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Cadillac 62 weights approximately 1250 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Cadillac 62 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 1961 Cadillac 62. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1961 Cadillac 62 (582 Nm) has 496 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm). This means 1961 Cadillac 62 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Cadillac 62 | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
Model | 62 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1961 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6390 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 582 Nm | 86 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2410 mm |