1988 Dodge Spirit vs. 1975 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1988 Dodge Spirit is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Dodge Spirit (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Spirit should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Dodge Spirit weights approximately 496 kg more than 1975 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, 1988 Dodge Spirit (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Dodge Spirit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Dodge Spirit | 1975 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spirit | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1316 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
