1984 Ford Fiesta vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 425 kg more than 1984 Ford Fiesta. 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (166 Nm) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (83 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Fiesta | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 775 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2680 mm |
