1970 Ford Capri vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Ford Capri would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1970 Ford Capri. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1970 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 260 kg more than 1970 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Ford Capri 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 1970 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1970 Ford Capri (236 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (235 Nm). This means 1970 Ford Capri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Ford Capri | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Capri | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1103 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
