2008 Chrysler 300 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Chrysler 300 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler 300 (340 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 297 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 995 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Chrysler 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler 300 will offer significantly more control. 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 Chrysler 300 (529 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 443 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler 300 | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 529 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2410 mm |
