1970 Dodge Dart vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Dodge Dart. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Dodge Dart would be higher. At 3,249 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Dodge Dart is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Dodge Dart (101 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Dodge Dart should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Dodge Dart weights approximately 535 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Dodge Dart 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 Dart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 Dodge Dart (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Dodge Dart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1970 Dodge Dart | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Dart | Beetle |
Year Released | 1970 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3249 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 217 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |