1970 Dodge Challenger vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Dodge Challenger (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 306 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Dodge Challenger 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 Dodge Challenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1970 Dodge Challenger (233 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1970 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Dodge Challenger | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Challenger | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2510 mm |
