1968 Ford 17 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 44 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 2,550 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Ford 17 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1968 Ford 17. (123 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 193 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford 17. (201 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford 17.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Ford 17 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | 17 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2550 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
