1955 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1989 Ford Meteor
To start off, 1989 Ford Meteor is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Meteor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Meteor (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Meteor should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1955 Volkswagen Beetle 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 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Meteor, 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, 1989 Ford Meteor (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Meteor will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | 1989 Ford Meteor | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Beetle | Meteor |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
