1971 Chrysler 160 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chrysler 160. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chrysler 160 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (89 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1971 Chrysler 160. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 183 kg more than 1971 Chrysler 160. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Chrysler 160 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 1971 Chrysler 160. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Chrysler 160. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chrysler 160 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 160 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
