1961 Chrysler Imperial vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Chrysler Imperial. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Chrysler Imperial would be higher. At 5,802 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Chrysler Imperial is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Chrysler Imperial (276 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (149 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Chrysler Imperial should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Chrysler Imperial weights approximately 1175 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 1961 Chrysler Imperial 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 Chrysler Imperial. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1961 Chrysler Imperial (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1961 Chrysler Imperial will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Chrysler Imperial | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Imperial | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5802 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2360 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6170 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3800 mm | 3010 mm |
