1966 Ford 12 M vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1966 Ford 12 M. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford 12 M.
Because 1966 Ford 12 M 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 1966 Ford 12 M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford 12 M. (135 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford 12 M.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford 12 M | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 M | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
