1979 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1979 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Escort.
Because 1979 Ford Escort 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 1979 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Escort | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 939 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
