1978 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1978 Chevrolet Caprice is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chevrolet Caprice (129 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 960 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Chevrolet Caprice 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 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 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 Chevrolet Caprice | 1959 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caprice | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5002 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1560 mm |
