1959 Ford Zodiac vs. 1957 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1959 Ford Zodiac is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Ford Zodiac (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Ford Zodiac should accelerate faster than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Ford Zodiac weights approximately 388 kg more than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Ford Zodiac 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 Zodiac. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1957 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.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Ford Zodiac | 1957 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Zodiac | Beetle |
Year Released | 1959 | 1957 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2552 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 76 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 804 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |