1959 Ford Popular vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Popular would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1959 Ford Popular. (26 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Popular.
Because 1959 Ford Popular 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 1959 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Ford Popular. (63 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Ford Popular.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Ford Popular | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Popular | Beetle |
Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1172 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 26 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 63 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 3880 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2510 mm |