1979 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2011 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2011 Ford Mustang is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Mustang (412 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 369 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Mustang weights approximately 867 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2011 Ford Mustang (528 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 442 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | 2011 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Beetle | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 412 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 528 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1687 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4778 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1877 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
