1982 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Chevrolet Caprice (148 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 391 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1982 Chevrolet Caprice (333 Nm) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1982 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1982 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Chevrolet Caprice | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caprice | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5002 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.9 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |
