1979 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan (283 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 240 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 1226 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Dodge |
| Model | Beetle | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 2046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 5151 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1999 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3078 mm |
