1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 14 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 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (197 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 2011 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 (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Express | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Van | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2510 mm |
