1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 40 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1978 Chrysler Valiant 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 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Chrysler Valiant | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
Model | Valiant | Beetle |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4015 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 277 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2537 mm |