1989 Dodge Spirit vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Dodge Spirit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Spirit would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1989 Dodge Spirit. (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1989 Dodge Spirit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 64 kg more than 1989 Dodge Spirit. 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Dodge Spirit. (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Dodge Spirit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Spirit | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spirit | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1316 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2537 mm |
