1975 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1975 Ford Escort. (84 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1975 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 401 kg more than 1975 Ford Escort. 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, 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (250 Nm) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Ford Escort. (125 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Ford Escort | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
