1976 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Volkswagen Beetle | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Beetle | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1283 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2685 mm |
