1970 Ford Escort vs. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1970 Ford Escort is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Ford Escort (98 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Ford Escort weights approximately 51 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Ford Escort 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 Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 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:
1970 Ford Escort | 1959 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Escort | Beetle |
Year Released | 1970 | 1959 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 98 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 851 kg | 800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |