1972 Chevrolet Chevelle vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle weights approximately 150 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle 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 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Chevelle | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4097 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1483 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
