1966 Ford 12 M vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 47 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1966 Ford 12 M. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford 12 M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 465 kg more than 1966 Ford 12 M. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford 12 M. (135 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 M | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
