1978 Cadillac Seville vs. 1958 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1978 Cadillac Seville is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Cadillac Seville is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Cadillac Seville (123 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Cadillac Seville should accelerate faster than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Cadillac Seville weights approximately 1090 kg more than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Cadillac Seville 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 1978 Cadillac Seville. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1958 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Cadillac Seville | 1958 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Seville | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5735 cc | 1190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2410 mm |
