1966 Ford GT 40 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ford GT 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ford GT 40 would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Ford GT 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Ford GT 40 (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Ford GT 40 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 26 kg more than 1966 Ford GT 40.
Because 1966 Ford GT 40 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 GT 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford GT 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford GT 40 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | GT 40 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.6 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1040 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 125 L | 55 L |
