1986 Plymouth Caravelle vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Plymouth Caravelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Plymouth Caravelle would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Plymouth Caravelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1986 Plymouth Caravelle. (97 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Plymouth Caravelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 235 kg more than 1986 Plymouth Caravelle. 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Plymouth Caravelle. (158 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Plymouth Caravelle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Plymouth Caravelle | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Plymouth | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravelle | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2510 mm |
