1978 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chevrolet Caprice (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 356 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New 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, 2004 Volkswagen New 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, 1978 Chevrolet Caprice (280 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (240 Nm). This means 1978 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Caprice | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caprice | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |
