1961 Ford Zodiac vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 14 kg more than 1961 Ford Zodiac. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Ford Zodiac. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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. Let's talk about torque, 1961 Ford Zodiac (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (150 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1961 Ford Zodiac will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Ford Zodiac | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Zodiac | Beetle |
Year Released | 1961 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2552 cc | 1594 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 76 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1205 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |