1980 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 280 kg more than 1980 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Chrysler 1609 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 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chrysler 1609 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1609 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2537 mm |
