1968 Ford Fairlane vs. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1968 Ford Fairlane is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 6,550 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Ford Fairlane (213 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 785 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Ford Fairlane 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 Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Ford Fairlane | 1956 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fairlane | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6550 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 213 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2410 mm |
