1977 Ford Fiesta vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1977 Ford Fiesta is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Ford Fiesta (66 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 45 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1977 Ford Fiesta (111 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1977 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Fiesta | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2410 mm |
