1959 Ford 17M vs. 1972 Volkswagen SP2
To start off, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford 17M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford 17M would be higher. At 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Ford 17M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1959 Ford 17M. (59 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford 17M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Ford 17M weights approximately 215 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen SP2.
Let's talk about torque, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Ford 17M. (120 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1972 Volkswagen SP2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Ford 17M.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Ford 17M | 1972 Volkswagen SP2 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | 17M | SP2 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1677 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.1:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2410 mm |
