1978 Ford Cortina vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1978 Ford Cortina. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 230 kg more than 1978 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Cortina 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 Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Cortina. (141 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Ford Cortina | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Cortina | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2323 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 141 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |