1966 Ford Zephyr vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 36 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 2,553 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (113 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 78 kg more than 1966 Ford Zephyr. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Zephyr | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Zephyr | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2553 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
