1968 Ford Mustang vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 7,010 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Ford Mustang (335 HP) has 292 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1968 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1968 Ford Mustang (597 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 511 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1968 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Ford Mustang | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7010 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 43 HP |
| Torque | 597 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2410 mm |
