1984 Ford GT 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 GT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford GT would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Ford GT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1984 Ford GT. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford GT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 306 kg more than 1984 Ford GT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Ford GT 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 1984 Ford GT. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford GT. (203 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford GT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford GT | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | GT | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2510 mm |
