1974 Ford Maverick vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Maverick. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Maverick would be higher. At 2,782 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Ford Maverick is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (89 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1974 Ford Maverick. (82 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Ford Maverick. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 33 kg more than 1974 Ford Maverick. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Ford Maverick 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 1974 Ford Maverick. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Ford Maverick. (179 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Ford Maverick.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Ford Maverick | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maverick | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2782 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2510 mm |
