1971 Ford Falcon vs. 1954 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1971 Ford Falcon is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford Falcon (129 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Ford Falcon weights approximately 560 kg more than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Ford Falcon 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 Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1954 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:
1971 Ford Falcon | 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Falcon | Beetle |
Year Released | 1971 | 1954 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3273 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |