1988 Dodge Spirit vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Dodge Spirit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Dodge Spirit would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (141 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1988 Dodge Spirit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Dodge Spirit weights approximately 52 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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 (232 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm). This means 1988 Dodge Spirit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Dodge Spirit | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spirit | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1354 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2510 mm |
