1976 Chrysler Centura vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler Centura (118 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler Centura should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 284 kg more than 1976 Chrysler Centura.
Because 1976 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 1976 Chrysler Centura. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Chrysler Centura (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler Centura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1976 Chrysler Centura has manual transmission. 1976 Chrysler Centura will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler Centura | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Centura | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 1984 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 | 175 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
