1961 Ford Popular vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Popular would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1961 Ford Popular. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 455 kg more than 1961 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Ford Popular | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Popular | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1961 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1170 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 31 HP | 149 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1185 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 3010 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |