1971 Ford Mustang vs. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,726 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford Mustang (251 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1971 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle (172 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Mustang. (146 Nm). This means 2010 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Mustang | 2010 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4726 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2520 mm |
