2006 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 5,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (401 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 220 kg more than 2006 Chevrolet SSR.
Because 2006 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 2006 Chevrolet SSR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (542 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 322 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 2006 Chevrolet SSR has manual transmission. 2006 Chevrolet SSR will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet SSR | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | SSR | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5965 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 12.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 55 L |
