1957 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,112 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Ford Thunderbird (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 179 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Ford Thunderbird 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 1957 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1957 Ford Thunderbird has manual transmission. 1957 Ford Thunderbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1957 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Thunderbird | Beetle |
Year Released | 1957 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5112 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 223 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1512 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2537 mm |