1954 Ford Popular vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Ford Popular would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1954 Ford Popular. (26 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1954 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 465 kg more than 1954 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Ford Popular 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 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (166 Nm) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Ford Popular. (63 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Ford Popular.
Compare all specifications:
1954 Ford Popular | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Popular | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1954 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1172 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 26 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 63 Nm | 166 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 735 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3880 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2680 mm |