1961 Chrysler Imperial vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 45 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 175 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Chrysler Imperial should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Chrysler Imperial weights approximately 1068 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 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 362 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1961 Chrysler Imperial will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Chrysler Imperial | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Imperial | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5802 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2360 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6170 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3800 mm | 2520 mm |
