1975 Chrysler Centura vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1975 Chrysler Centura is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Chrysler Centura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Chrysler Centura (118 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Chrysler Centura should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Chrysler Centura weights approximately 295 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Chrysler Centura. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1975 Chrysler Centura (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1975 Chrysler Centura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Chrysler Centura | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Centura | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
