1950 Mercury Roadster vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1955 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Mercury Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Mercury Roadster would be higher. At 3,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1950 Mercury Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1950 Mercury Roadster (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1950 Mercury Roadster should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1950 Mercury Roadster weights approximately 810 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 Mercury Roadster | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1950 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3990 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 4070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2410 mm |
