1974 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 335 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1974 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 1974 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chevrolet Impala. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chevrolet Impala. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1974 Chevrolet Impala has manual transmission. 1974 Chevrolet Impala will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Chevrolet Impala | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Impala | Beetle |
Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 256 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2537 mm |