1978 Ford Capri vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Capri would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1978 Ford Capri. (137 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 40 kg more than 1978 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Capri 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 1978 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Capri. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Ford Capri | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Capri | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 137 HP | 149 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1185 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3010 mm |