2002 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 1334 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Chevrolet SSR 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 2002 Chevrolet SSR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2002 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 363 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet SSR | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | SSR | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5316 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2410 mm |
