1971 Chrysler Charger vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chrysler Charger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chrysler Charger would be higher. At 3,523 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Chrysler Charger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Chrysler Charger (139 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Chrysler Charger should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Chrysler Charger weights approximately 540 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Chrysler Charger 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 Charger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1971 Chrysler Charger (272 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Chrysler Charger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Chrysler Charger | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
Model | Charger | Beetle |
Year Released | 1971 | 1980 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3523 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 272 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |