1964 Ford Zephyr vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1964 Ford Zephyr. (72 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1964 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 85 kg more than 1964 Ford Zephyr. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Ford Zephyr 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 1964 Ford Zephyr. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Ford Zephyr. (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Ford Zephyr | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Zephyr | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1703 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
