1978 Ford Mustang vs. 1958 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1978 Ford Mustang is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ford Mustang (87 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford Mustang weights approximately 445 kg more than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1958 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:
| 1978 Ford Mustang | 1958 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2294 cc | 1190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1560 mm |
