1966 Ford Zephyr vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 2,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (180 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (126 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 17 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1966 Ford Zephyr 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 Zephyr. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, both vehicles can yield 235 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Zephyr | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Zephyr | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2992 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
