1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 33 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 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 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 556 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gran Torino | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4097 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1858 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
