1970 Chrysler Centura vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Chrysler Centura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Chrysler Centura (164 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Chrysler Centura should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 82 kg more than 1970 Chrysler Centura.
Because 1970 Chrysler Centura 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 1970 Chrysler Centura. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1970 Chrysler Centura (318 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (175 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1970 Chrysler Centura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Chrysler Centura | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Centura | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 318 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2537 mm |
