2006 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2012 Chevrolet Express
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Express is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 6,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Express (260 HP @ 3100 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1199 kg more than 2006 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 Express 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 Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Express (711 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 479 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (232 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2012 Chevrolet Express | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | New Beetle | Express |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2475 cc | 6600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 711 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1162 kg | 2361 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 5692 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2012 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 2070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3429 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 117 L |
