1956 Ford Zodiac vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1956 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 39 kg more than 1956 Ford Zodiac. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Ford Zodiac 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 Zodiac. 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, 1956 Ford Zodiac (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1956 Ford Zodiac will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Ford Zodiac | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Zodiac | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2552 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 136 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
