1989 Chrysler Viper vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1989 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 257 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Chrysler Viper 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 1989 Chrysler Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1989 Chrysler Viper (621 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 381 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1989 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Chrysler Viper | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
Model | Viper | Beetle |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 7986 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 389 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 621 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2537 mm |