1972 Chevrolet Nomad vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Nomad. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Nomad would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Nomad is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Nomad. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Nomad. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chevrolet Nomad weights approximately 395 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Nomad 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 Nomad. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1972 Chevrolet Nomad (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1972 Chevrolet Nomad will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Nomad | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nomad | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5012 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
