1955 Ford Zephyr vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 2,260 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1955 Ford Zephyr. (57 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1955 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 86 kg more than 1955 Ford Zephyr. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Ford Zephyr. 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Ford Zephyr. (151 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Ford Zephyr | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Zephyr | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
