1977 Ford Fiesta vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (52 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 540 kg more than 1977 Ford Fiesta. 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (80 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Fiesta | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 726 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |
