1961 Ford Taunus vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,497 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Ford Taunus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1961 Ford Taunus. (53 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 308 kg more than 1961 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Ford Taunus 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 Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Taunus. (111 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Ford Taunus | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Taunus | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1497 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 111 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1268 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 3010 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |