1975 Chrysler Centura vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Chrysler Centura 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 5 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Chrysler Centura should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 216 kg more than 1975 Chrysler Centura.
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, 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, 1975 Chrysler Centura (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1975 Chrysler Centura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Chrysler Centura | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Centura | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2470 mm |
