1974 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Chevrolet Caprice (143 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 820 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1974 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1974 Chevrolet Caprice (339 Nm) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (166 Nm). This means 1974 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Caprice | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caprice | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2020 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5670 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2680 mm |
