1973 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 375 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1973 Chevrolet Impala 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 1973 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1973 Chevrolet Impala (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1973 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Chevrolet Impala | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Impala | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4097 cc | 2323 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 90.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2510 mm |