1970 Plymouth Barracuda vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Plymouth Barracuda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Plymouth Barracuda would be higher. At 3,249 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Plymouth Barracuda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Plymouth Barracuda (101 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Plymouth Barracuda should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Plymouth Barracuda weights approximately 545 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Plymouth Barracuda 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 Plymouth Barracuda. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Plymouth Barracuda | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Plymouth | Volkswagen |
| Model | Barracuda | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3249 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
