2005 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1954 Volkswagen Beetle

To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 478 kg more than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1954 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Chevrolet Cavalier 1954 Volkswagen Beetle
Make Chevrolet Volkswagen
Model Cavalier Beetle
Year Released 2005 1954
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 2190 cc 1192 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 120 HP 38 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 3900 RPM
Torque 176 Nm 89 Nm
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 77 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 64 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1218 kg 740 kg
Vehicle Length 4600 mm 4070 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1560 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2410 mm