1997 Holden Commodore vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 197 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Holden Commodore weights approximately 230 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1997 Holden Commodore 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 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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 Holden Commodore (304 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1997 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Holden Commodore | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Commodore | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2537 mm |
