1982 Ford Mustang vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1982 Ford Mustang. (87 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 195 kg more than 1982 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Ford Mustang. 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 (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
1982 Ford Mustang | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Mustang | Beetle |
Year Released | 1982 | 2013 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2294 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 87 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 161 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4277 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2537 mm |