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 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (129 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 264 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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 (333 Nm) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 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 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5002 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 333 Nm | 220 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1436 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2510 mm |