1977 Chrysler Centura vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1977 Chrysler Centura. (118 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1977 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 264 kg more than 1977 Chrysler Centura. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Chrysler Centura. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Chrysler Centura. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Chrysler Centura.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Chrysler Centura | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Centura | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2537 mm |
