1959 Ford Popular vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 53 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1959 Ford Popular. (26 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 645 kg more than 1959 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 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. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Ford Popular. (63 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Ford Popular. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1959 Ford Popular has manual transmission. 1959 Ford Popular 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.

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