1977 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (295 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 285 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 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 2012 Chevrolet Silverado. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (414 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | 2012 Chevrolet Silverado | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Beetle | Silverado |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 414 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 5850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 2040 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3650 mm |
