1976 Ford Taunus vs. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1976 Ford Taunus is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Ford Taunus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Ford Taunus (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Ford Taunus should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Taunus weights approximately 315 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Ford Taunus 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 1976 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 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:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 1959 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taunus | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2410 mm |
