1984 Ford Fiesta vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1984 Ford Fiesta is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Ford Fiesta (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 40 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1984 Ford Fiesta (103 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1984 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Fiesta | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2410 mm |
