1972 Chrysler Centura vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Chrysler Centura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Chrysler Centura (118 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Chrysler Centura should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 116 kg more than 1972 Chrysler Centura.
Because 1972 Chrysler Centura 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 Chrysler Centura. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Chrysler Centura (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1972 Chrysler Centura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chrysler Centura | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Centura | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2590 mm |
