1968 Ford 17 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford 17 would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1968 Ford 17. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 220 kg more than 1968 Ford 17. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Ford 17 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 1968 Ford 17. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford 17. (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford 17.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Ford 17 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | 17 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2293 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 41 L | 55 L |
