1998 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (295 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 218 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 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 2012 Chevrolet Silverado. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (414 Nm) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2012 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2012 Chevrolet Silverado | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | New Beetle | Silverado |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 414 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1331 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 6340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 4010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 129 L |
