1966 Mercury Comet vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercury Comet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercury Comet would be higher. At 4,738 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Mercury Comet (198 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (149 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mercury Comet should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1966 Mercury Comet 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 Mercury Comet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1966 Mercury Comet (382 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1966 Mercury Comet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Mercury Comet | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Comet | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4738 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3010 mm |
