1972 Dodge Challenger vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 3,678 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1972 Dodge Challenger. (109 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 55 kg more than 1972 Dodge Challenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Dodge Challenger 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 Dodge Challenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Dodge Challenger (256 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1972 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Dodge Challenger | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Challenger | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3678 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2510 mm |
