1959 Lincoln Continental vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 7,043 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Lincoln Continental (349 HP) has 181 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (168 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 953 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Lincoln Continental 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 Lincoln Continental. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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. 1959 Lincoln Continental has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1959 Lincoln Continental will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Lincoln Continental | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lincoln | Volkswagen |
| Model | Continental | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7043 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 109.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2223 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5770 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2050 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3330 mm | 2520 mm |
