2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1954 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 5,670 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 1401 kg more than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (438 Nm) has 349 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 2009 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Impala | 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Impala | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1954 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5670 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 438 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2141 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2410 mm |
