1959 Ford Zephyr vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1959 Ford Zephyr. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 122 kg more than 1959 Ford Zephyr. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Ford Zephyr 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 Zephyr. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Ford Zephyr. (180 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Ford Zephyr | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Zephyr | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2552 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1176 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
