1965 Ford Corsair vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Ford Corsair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Ford Corsair would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP) has 82 more horse power than 1965 Ford Corsair. (66 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1965 Ford Corsair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 286 kg more than 1965 Ford Corsair. 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Ford Corsair. (114 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Ford Corsair.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Ford Corsair | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corsair | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1965 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1663 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
