1995 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 374 kg more than 1978 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, 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cavalier | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
