1971 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1971 Ford Escort. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Escort.
Because 1971 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 1971 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Escort. (68 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Escort | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2510 mm |
