1973 Mercury Montego vs. 1958 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1973 Mercury Montego is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,095 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercury Montego is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercury Montego (96 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercury Montego should accelerate faster than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercury Montego weights approximately 955 kg more than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercury Montego 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 1973 Mercury Montego. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1958 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:
| 1973 Mercury Montego | 1958 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Montego | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4095 cc | 1190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5300 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1560 mm |
