2008 Chevrolet Express vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Express is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Express (279 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 378 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2008 Chevrolet Express (399 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2008 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Express | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Express | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Van | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4800 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 279 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5700 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2080 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 55 L |
