1965 Ford Corsair vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1965 Ford Corsair is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,663 cc (4 cylinders), 1965 Ford Corsair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Ford Corsair (76 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Ford Corsair should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Ford Corsair weights approximately 235 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Ford Corsair 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 1965 Ford Corsair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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, 1965 Ford Corsair (135 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1965 Ford Corsair will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Ford Corsair | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corsair | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1663 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |
