1973 Chrysler Centura vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Centura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Centura. (118 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 69 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Centura. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Chrysler Centura. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Centura. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Centura.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Centura | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Centura | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3010 mm |
