1950 Ford Zephyr vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 2,262 cc (6 cylinders), 1950 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1950 Ford Zephyr (57 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1950 Ford Zephyr should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1950 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 325 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1950 Ford Zephyr 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 1950 Ford Zephyr. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen 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, 1950 Ford Zephyr (151 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1950 Ford Zephyr will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1950 Ford Zephyr | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Zephyr | Beetle |
Year Released | 1950 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2262 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 57 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 151 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 40 L |