1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (217 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. (180 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1051 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 1997 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (379 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Express | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Van | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4997 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 379 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2364 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2520 mm |
