1974 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1974 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Chevrolet Suburban (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Chevrolet Suburban should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 1440 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Chevrolet Suburban will offer significantly more control. 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 Suburban (242 Nm) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1974 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Suburban | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Suburban | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1961 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 242 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2410 mm |
