2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1981 Chrysler Avenger
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chrysler Avenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chrysler Avenger would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 412 kg more than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Chrysler Avenger 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 1981 Chrysler Avenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. (93 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. 1981 Chrysler Avenger has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Chrysler Avenger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1981 Chrysler Avenger | |
Make | Volkswagen | Chrysler |
Model | New Beetle | Avenger |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 102 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 93 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1292 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2500 mm |