2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1980 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,812 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Chrysler 1609 (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 64 kg more than 1980 Chrysler 1609.
Because 1980 Chrysler 1609 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 1980 Chrysler 1609. 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, 1980 Chrysler 1609 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1980 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1980 Chrysler 1609 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. 1980 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1980 Chrysler 1609 | |
Make | Volkswagen | Chrysler |
Model | New Beetle | 1609 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1812 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 144 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1100 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2670 mm |