1997 TVR Chimaera 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 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 295 kg more than 1997 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1997 TVR Chimaera 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 TVR Chimaera. 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 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 TVR Chimaera | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | TVR | Volkswagen |
| Model | Chimaera | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3946 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 373 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 95 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
