2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 665 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Dodge Caliber (190 Nm) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caliber | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 40 L |
