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 (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1976 Dodge Aspen. (101 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 195 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 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (225 Nm @ 3200 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 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 117.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
