1976 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chevrolet Caprice (145 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 320 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1976 Chevrolet Caprice (332 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1976 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1976 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Chevrolet Caprice | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Caprice | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5000 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 332 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 94.9 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2510 mm |