1984 Ford Sierra 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 Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1984 Ford Sierra. (75 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 396 kg more than 1984 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1984 Ford Sierra 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 Sierra. 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 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Sierra. (123 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Sierra.

Compare all specifications:

1984 Ford Sierra 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Sierra New Beetle
Year Released 1984 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1593 cc 1786 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 75 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 123 Nm 220 Nm
Engine Bore Size 87.7 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.3:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1040 kg 1436 kg
Vehicle Length 4430 mm 4100 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2610 mm 2510 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 55 L