2008 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Lumina is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 5,667 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Lumina weights approximately 793 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2008 Chevrolet Lumina 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 Lumina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2008 Chevrolet Lumina (471 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 385 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Lumina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Lumina | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lumina | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5667 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 43 HP |
| Torque | 471 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2410 mm |
