1976 Dodge Aspen vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1976 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Dodge Aspen weights approximately 107 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1976 Dodge Aspen 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 Dodge Aspen. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Dodge Aspen (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1976 Dodge Aspen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Dodge Aspen | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Aspen | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2710 mm |
