1973 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (91 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 401 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler Valiant 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 Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Valiant | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Valiant | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1439 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2630 mm |
