1969 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 7,029 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (355 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1969 Ford Thunderbird 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 1969 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1969 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 1969 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1969 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Ford Thunderbird | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Thunderbird | Beetle |
Year Released | 1969 | 2013 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 7029 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 355 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 14.7 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 29.4 L/100km | 10.3 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 55 L |