1978 Ford Mustang vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,786 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1978 Ford Mustang. (108 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 115 kg more than 1978 Ford Mustang. 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, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Mustang. (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Mustang | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2786 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2510 mm |
