1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 4,095 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (97 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 414 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 1972 Ford Gran Torino. 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, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (245 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gran Torino | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4095 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 55 L |
