1979 Ford Ranchero vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Ranchero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Ranchero would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1979 Ford Ranchero. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Ranchero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 395 kg more than 1979 Ford Ranchero. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Ford Ranchero 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 Ranchero. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (320 Nm) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Ranchero. (170 Nm). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Ranchero. 1979 Ford Ranchero has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Ford Ranchero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Ford Ranchero | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Ranchero | Beetle |
Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1992 cc | 2000 cc |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 320 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1320 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2537 mm |