1997 Dodge Copperhead vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Copperhead. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Copperhead would be higher. At 2,700 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Copperhead is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Copperhead (217 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Copperhead should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 45 kg more than 1997 Dodge Copperhead.
Because 1997 Dodge Copperhead 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 Dodge Copperhead. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New 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 Dodge Copperhead (255 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Copperhead will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Copperhead | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Copperhead | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2700 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2510 mm |
