1996 Chrysler Neon vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chrysler Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chrysler Neon would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1996 Chrysler Neon. (131 HP @ 5850 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Chrysler Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 271 kg more than 1996 Chrysler Neon. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chrysler Neon. (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chrysler Neon. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1996 Chrysler Neon has manual transmission. 1996 Chrysler Neon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chrysler Neon | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
Model | Neon | Beetle |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1109 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2537 mm |