1975 Ford Escort vs. 1958 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1975 Ford Escort is newer by 17 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 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Ford Escort (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Ford Escort weights approximately 180 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 1975 Ford Escort 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 1975 Ford Escort. 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:
| 1975 Ford Escort | 1958 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1560 mm |
