1980 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 3,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. (114 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 301 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1980 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 1980 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, 1980 Chevrolet Caprice (237 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm). This means 1980 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chevrolet Caprice | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caprice | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3753 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1279 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2470 mm |
