1956 Ford Consul vs. 1964 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1964 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ford Consul. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ford Consul would be higher. At 1,703 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Ford Consul is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Ford Consul (47 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1964 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Consul should accelerate faster than 1964 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Consul weights approximately 329 kg more than 1964 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Ford Consul 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 1956 Ford Consul. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1964 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Ford Consul | 1964 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Consul | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1703 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3300 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 | 1089 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 40 L |
